09/02/2008  Shatin  Race 3

When the gates opened, THE GOODIES stood flat-footed and lost a considerable amount of ground. Before being allowed to race again, THE GOODIES will have to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. From a wide barrier, MELLIFLUOUS was taken across behind runners. After the 1200 Metres, KING OF TURF commenced to over-race badly and for a considerable distance was restrained when awkwardly placed between MELLIFLUOUS and TRIUMPHANT DIAMOND. At the 700 Metres, NASA PEARL shifted to a three wide position without cover. After the 500 Metres, MELLIFLUOUS was steadied when awkwardly placed between the heels of MAINLAND SHUTTLE and HANDSOME TARGET, then for a considerable distance after straightening was held up and unable to obtain clear running. For some distance approaching and passing the 300 Metres, MAINLAND SHUTTLE had difficulty obtaining clear running. D Whyte (SIGHT WINNER) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 200 Metres he failed to take sufficient measures to prevent his mount which was hanging in from shifting ground when not clear of HANDSOME TARGET, resulting in that horse losing its rightful running and being checked. When considering the appropriate penalty, the Stewards took into account all the circumstances including the manner in which SIGHT WINNER was racing. In the circumstances, it was considered appropriate for Jockey Whyte’s licence to ride in races be suspended for a period to expire on Sunday 2 March 2008 on which day he may resume race riding (2 Hong Kong racedays). The commencement of the suspension was deferred until after the Sha Tin racemeeting on Sunday 24 February 2008. In addition, D Whyte was fined $120,000 in lieu of a suspension for a period incorporating three further racedays. At the 50 Metres, HANDSOME TARGET was momentarily steadied away from the heels of MELLIFLUOUS which shifted in. Close to the line, TRIUMPHANT DIAMOND was awkwardly placed inside the heels of NASA PEARL which was drifting in. Because of this, TRIUMPHANT DIAMOND was not ridden right out to the end of the race. In the Straight, SIGHT WINNER hung in. THE GOODIES was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, THE GOODIES was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, THE GOODIES will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SIGHT WINNER and MELLIFLUOUS were sent for sampling.