26/01/2014  Shatin  Race 6

On arrival at the Start, O Doleuze, the rider of SMILING WATCH, advised the Veterinary Officer that the horse may have been kicked by another runner on the way to the Start. A veterinary examination of SMILING WATCH did not reveal any significant findings and after the necessary consultations SMILING WATCH was found to be suitable to race. DOUBLE GLORY proved difficult to load. Before being allowed to race again, DOUBLE GLORY will be required to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. After being loaded, HELENE FUN STAR became fractious. Before being allowed to race again, HELENE FUN STAR will be required to perform satisfactorily in a stalls test. ADMIRAL LORD was crowded for room at the start between SMILING WATCH and PERCY JACKSON which shifted out. HARBOUR MASTER began awkwardly. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, PERFECT JOY failed to muster speed. Approaching the 1700 Metres, BACKBENCH BLUES momentarily raced in restricted room between PERCY JACKSON and HARBOUR MASTER, both of which shifted ground. For some distance approaching and passing the winning post on the first occasion, HARBOUR MASTER and SMILING WATCH raced tight. Shortly after entering the Straight, TODOS CON SUERTE and SMILING WATCH raced tight. For some distance in the early part of the Straight, HARBOUR MASTER was checked away from the heels of EMPEROR CLAUDIUS when badly held up for clear running behind that horse. Approaching the 300 Metres, ADMIRAL LORD was steadied away from the heels of PERCY JACKSON which shifted out. In the Straight, HELENE FUN STAR got its head on the side and hung out. Throughout the race, EMPEROR CLAUDIUS travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. The performance of KING OF REASON, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, KING OF REASON will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of DOUBLE GLORY and ADMIRAL LORD immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. PERFECT JOY and PERCY JACKSON were sent for sampling.