19/04/2015  Shatin  Race 9

Whilst in the Parade Ring, the tongue tie applied to GRAND HARBOUR was refitted. On arrival at the Start, DRAGON PINS was replated after the horse was found to have lost its right front plate. DRAGON PINS was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said the horse was suitable to race. Shortly after the start, BACKBENCH BLUES was crowded for room between SPEEDY WALLY and TERRIFIC MASTER, both of which shifted ground. Also shortly after the start, WINNING INSTINCT was hampered by SECRET WEAPON which was steadied when crowded for room between FLYING UNICORN which shifted out and PO CHING TREASURE (N Callan) which shifted in. N Callan was advised to exercise more care. From wide barriers, RED DANCER and DRAGON PINS were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the 1100 Metres, OVETT was left racing wide and without cover. After the 1000 Metres, WINNING INSTINCT got its head up when awkwardly placed close to the heels of SECRET WEAPON. DRAGON PINS lost its right front plate passing the 800 Metres. After the 700 Metres, SECRET WEAPON was steadied away from the heels of SO CAFFE (K Teetan) which shifted out. K Teetan was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground. Rounding the Home Turn, PO CHING TREASURE was taken wider by SO CAFFE which shifted out into clear running. Rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, SPEEDY WALLY hung in under pressure. Passing the 200 Metres, PO CHING TREASURE got its head on the side and shifted in. In the Straight, GRAND HARBOUR got its head on the side and lay in under pressure. When questioned, Apprentice K C Ng (BACKBENCH BLUES) stated that he rode his mount along prior to and rounding the Home Turn. He said however that in the early part of the Straight BACKBENCH BLUES hung in and he was not able to properly test it as the horse was awkwardly placed outside the heels of FLYING UNICORN which was commencing to give ground. He said he was able to straighten BACKBENCH BLUES and then rode the horse out over the final 200 Metres. SECRET WEAPON and SO CAFFE were sent for sampling.