01/02/2009  Shatin  Race 9

After arriving at the Start, the tongue tie fitted to SEA TREASURE was adjusted. When the gates opened, THE GOODIES stood flat-footed and lost a considerable amount of ground. CHIRAC began awkwardly and bounded in the air. On jumping, MAGIC TEMPLE was taken back. BOUNCER began awkwardly, then became unbalanced when buffeted between CENTURY SUPER STAR and AMPLE GAINS. At the 950 Metres, SEA TREASURE got its head up when being steadied away from the heels of CENTURY SUPER STAR which shifted out slightly when being steadied away from the heels of LUCKY MONEY. THREE CLUBS, which was following, was steadied away from the heels of SEA TREASURE, shifted in, became unbalanced and got its head up. At the 500 Metres, NASA PEARL, which was racing keenly and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of YOUNG HERO (Apprentice M L Yeung) was checked when YOUNG HERO shifted in slightly. Apprentice Yeung was told to exercise care. When questioned regarding the poor performance of LUCKY MONEY, M W Leung explained the intention had been to lead on the horse, however, despite riding his mount along in the early stages he was unable to do so. He said making the first turn when he was not able to lead, he decided to shift to the fence behind the leader to allow his horse to relax. He said as soon as he did this LUCKY MONEY was reluctant to face the kickback and despite being ridden along was not able to maintain its position on the back of the leader. He said at no stage of the race did LUCKY MONEY travel well, came under pressure making the turn at the 700 Metres and shortly after straightening commenced to give ground quickly. LUCKY MONEY was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of LUCKY MONEY after the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of LUCKY MONEY, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, LUCKY MONEY will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SEA TREASURE was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of SEA TREASURE after the race did not show any significant findings. GOLDEN TREASURE and INDUSTRIAL MARVEL were sent for sampling.