24/01/2009  Shatin  Race 9

ROCKET WIN and DASH AHEAD were slow to begin. INDUSTRIAL EXPRESS began awkwardly. Entering the Back Straight, LONDON EXPRESS was left racing wide and without cover. At the 100 Metres, K T Yeung (POWER DRIFTER) dropped his whip. Throughout the race, BEAUTIFUL CHOICE travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the poor performance of DUMBARTON ROCK which was having its first start over 2000 Metres today, Z Purton said he was required to make some use of his mount in the early stages to obtain a forward position on a fast tempo. He said DUMBARTON ROCK travelled only fairly to the 1200 Metres when the tempo of the race steadied somewhat. He said after this DUMBARTON ROCK travelled more comfortably in a bunching field. He said when the tempo again quickened prior to straightening, DUMBARTON ROCK responded to his riding only fairly initially and then over about the final 250 Metres gave ground. He said in his opinion DUMBARTON ROCK, in a fast tempo race, did not run out the distance of today’s race at its first time of asking. DUMBARTON ROCK was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of DUMBARTON ROCK after the race did not show any significant findings. MONTE CRISTO and FLYING TAMARI were sent for sampling.