18/09/2010  Shatin  Race 7

ROCKET POWER was slow to begin. ZEZAO began awkwardly. Near the 950 Metres, PRAISING and FLYING SUPREME became unbalanced when bumped by MANDARIN which shifted in to avoid the heels of ELITE FORTUNE (W C Marwing) which shifted in when not properly clear. W C Marwing immediately shifted ELITE FORTUNE out and relieved the crowding to the horses to his inside. W C Marwing was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear prior to shifting ground in future. ZEZAO, which was following PRAISING, was hampered in consequence. Apprentice K C Leung (ZEZAO) was reminded of his obligation under the Rules of Racing to adequately test his mounts at all relevant stages in the Straight. When questioned, D Whyte stated that MANDARIN missed the start and for this reason he was obliged to ride the horse along to make up lost ground. He said MANDARIN was crowded for room near the 950 Metres and after this was obliged to race three wide and without cover for the remainder of the race. He said he commenced to ride MANDARIN along rounding the Home Turn, however, the horse lost its action and did not stretch out as he thought it should for the remainder of the race. He said the manner in which MANDARIN’s action deteriorated and the manner in which it weakened gave him cause for concern. A veterinary inspection of MANDARIN after the race did not show any significant findings. Before being allowed to race again, MANDARIN will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial around a bend and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. FLYING SUPREME, MANDARIN, ELITE FORTUNE and GOOD LUCK WIN were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that GRAND STORE was making an abnormal breathing noise.