13/09/2009  Shatin  Race 8

EIGHT PLUS NINE began awkwardly. SPEEDY was slow to begin. Approaching the 1100 Metres, GOOD LUCK WIN, WINNER SMART and MASCOT FORTUNE were all badly crowded for room between HAPPY GO LUCKY and DR POSSIBLE which at this time was taken in by BELONG TO CASA (Apprentice K W Leung) which shifted in when not clear. Apprentice Leung, who was having his first day of race riding in Hong Kong today, was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure he is two lengths clear before shifting ground in future. A short distance later, DR POSSIBLE was steadied when crowded for room between HOLEY DOLLAR which shifted in slightly and MASCOT FORTUNE which was taken out by WINNER SMART which in turn was taken out slightly by GOOD LUCK WIN. As a result of these incidents, DR POSSIBLE was left racing wide without cover and approaching the 900 Metres was allowed to stride forward. However, DR POSSIBLE continued to race without cover. Passing the 1100 Metres, WINNER SMART and MASCOT FORTUNE, which were both racing ungenerously, were momentarily crowded for room inside HOLEY DOLLAR which shifted in slightly. When questioned, D Whyte (DR POSSIBLE) stated that after receiving some early interference, his mount came under pressure prior to the 600 Metres. He stated that shortly after straightening DR POSSIBLE made a significant abnormal breathing noise and he immediately became concerned with the manner in which DR POSSIBLE was travelling. He stated for this reason he did not ride the horse out for the remainder of the race and despite not being ridden out DR POSSIBLE continued to make significant respiratory noises. DR POSSIBLE was sent for an official veterinary inspection and sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported DR POSSIBLE was noted to be making an abnormal breathing noise. He said DR POSSIBLE had previously been reported to be a “roarer”. In the circumstances, the performance of DR POSSIBLE was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, DR POSSIBLE will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. WINNER SMART was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of WINNER SMART after the race did not show any significant findings. HOLEY DOLLAR and FERRO BEAU were sent for sampling.