20/12/2008  Shatin  Race 3

GRAND GENERAL began awkwardly, then shortly afterwards blundered after striking the heels of COME HO CHOI which on jumping shifted out. On jumping, PURE ALPHA from a wide barrier was taken back. In the early and middle stages, HOT SUN proved difficult to settle, got its head up and hung out. Near the 1000 Metres, PURE ALPHA was steadied when tightened for room inside MULTI-WIN SPIRIT which was carried in slightly by NOBLE ZOOM. Making the turn at the 800 Metres, MONTY was steadied away from the heels of MULTI-WIN SPIRIT. Also making the turn at the 800 Metres, KING OF FISH, which was hanging out, blundered after striking the heels of ZERO GRAVITY. Near the 500 Metres, MONTY was checked to avoid the heels of MULTI-WIN SPIRIT which was steadied away from the heels of KING OF FISH. Also near the 500 Metres, LITTLE BIG BOY jumped a mark on the track. Making the Home Turn, NOBLE ZOOM was steadied when disappointed for running between TRIUMPHANT GLORY and KING OF FISH (K T Yeung) which shifted out. K T Yeung was told to exercise greater care when shifting ground. On straightening, LITTLE BIG BOY was carried wider by MONTY which shifted out. After the 200 Metres, PURE ALPHA became unbalanced when awkwardly placed between TIMBER CITY and KING OF FISH. In the Straight, MONTY hung in. Throughout the race, ZERO GRAVITY travelled wide and without cover. LITTLE BIG BOY was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. A veterinary inspection of LITTLE BIG BOY after the race did not show any significant findings. COME HO CHOI, which finished distanced, was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, COME HO CHOI was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said the horse was lame in its right front leg. Before being allowed to race again, COME HO CHOI will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. HOT SUN and ZERO GRAVITY were sent for sampling.