21/09/2008  Shatin  Race 5

As the start was effected, TOP SPEED became fractious, got its head up and as a consequence lost a considerable amount of ground. Before being allowed to race again, TOP SPEED will have to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. Shortly after the start, FIRST KNIGHT was checked when crowded for room between ZEPHYRUS and FREEBIRD which began awkwardly, stumbled and shifted out. Near the 1200 Metres, ELEPHANT STAR was steadied when awkwardly placed inside the heels of DOUBLE FANTASY which shifted in momentarily. DECAGONAL, which was following, was steadied in consequence. From on straightening until about the 200 Metres, DECAGONAL had difficulty obtaining clear running, then near the 100 Metres was bumped by KING OF FISH. At the 200 Metres, ELEPHANT STAR, which had been experiencing difficulty obtaining clear running, was checked to avoid the heels of MR FLOODLIGHT which was giving ground. After the 200 Metres, KING OF FISH was checked when crowded for room between NAMJONG SKY and FREEBIRD, both of which shifted ground. In the circumstances, no action was taken. After this incident, NAMJONG SKY continued to shift in while hanging. For the major part of the race, FREEBIRD hung out and travelled wide and without cover. ELEPHANT STAR was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of ELEPHANT STAR after the race did not show any significant findings. NAMJONG SKY and MULTI-WIN SPIRIT were sent for sampling.