18/01/2017  Shatin  Race 3

DUNDONNELL began awkwardly, shifted out and bumped BORN IN CHINA, resulting in both horses losing ground. HAPPY SURVEYS began only fairly. From the outside barrier, EROICO was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. Passing the 600 Metres, ALMABABY shifted out and bumped the hindquarters of PABLOSKY. After the 600 Metres, DUNDONNELL got its head on the side and lay out when awkwardly placed close to the heels of EROICO. Rounding the Home Turn, ALMABABY and PABLOSKY raced tight. Shortly after entering the Straight, FABULOUS ONE became badly unbalanced of its own accord. When questioned regarding the performance of WAH MAY FRIEND, J Moreira stated that after riding his mount along in the early stages to take up a forward position, he was able to obtain a good trailing position behind the leaders passing the 800 Metres. He said after being crossed by ALMABABY, WAH MAY FRIEND appeared to resent the kickback and he therefore shifted WAH MAY FRIEND away from behind that horse in the hope that it would travel better. He said WAH MAY FRIEND continued to race off the bridle and he therefore shifted the horse out from behind PABLOSKY after the 600 Metres. He added, despite this, WAH MAY FRIEND did not respond to his riding and was most disappointing in the manner in which it gave ground in the Straight. A veterinary inspection of WAH MAY FRIEND immediately following the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood and mucopus in the horse's trachea. The performance of WAH MAY FRIEND, a favourite for tonight’s race, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, WAH MAY FRIEND will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, D Whyte was unable to offer any explanation for the disappointing performance of PABLOSKY. A veterinary inspection of PABLOSKY immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. WAH MAY FRIEND, EROICO and ALMABABY were sent for sampling.