27/09/2023  Happy Valley  Race 8

TOMODACHI KOKOROE and SOLID IMPACT bumped at the start and as a result SOLID IMPACT shifted out, resulting in WINNER METHOD being taken out and making contact with HOSS. From wide barriers, A AMERIC TE SPECSO and ATOMIC FORCE were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. From a wide barrier, HAPPY GOLF was also shifted across behind runners in the early stages and got its head up and raced keenly when being steadied. Near the 150 Metres, A AMERIC TE SPECSO was checked and shifted in abruptly to avoid SOLID IMPACT when that runner was being eased down and as a result crowded the running of WINNER METHOD. When questioned regarding the performance of WONDER KIT, C Y Ho stated that his mount travelled satisfactorily throughout the early and middle stages, but when placed under pressure in the Home Straight responded only fairly and after changing lead in the early part of the Home Straight did not finish the race off strongly. A veterinary inspection of WONDER KIT immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, H Bowman (SOLID IMPACT) stated that near the 200 Metres he was concerned that something had gone amiss with his mount and for this reason he retired it from the event. Trainer D J Hall advised that SOLID IMPACT had pleased him leading into the race and had pulled up well following its last start on 20 September 2023. He could offer no explanation for the views expressed by Jockey Bowman. A veterinary inspection of SOLID IMPACT immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of SOLID IMPACT, favourite for tonight’s race, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, SOLID IMPACT will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Also after the race, Z Purton (HOSS) stated that his mount would derive benefit from tonight’s performance. A veterinary inspection of HOSS immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. A veterinary inspection of WINNER METHOD and A AMERIC TE SPECSO immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SOLID IMPACT, O’LINER and LUCKY EIGHT were sent for sampling.