15/10/2023  Shatin  Race 1

KYRUS UNICORN (D267): Was sent for sampling post-race. GOLD STERLING (H032): Jumped awkwardly and then was checked when crowded at the start. Had some difficulty obtaining clear running making the Home Turn. SPLENDID STAR (G026): A Atzeni (JOYFUL CHAMPION) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 400 Metres he directed his mount out when there was insufficient room to do so, resulting in SPLENDID STAR being crowded for room when racing to the inside of KYRUS UNICORN and causing SPLENDID STAR to be checked when it lost its rightful running. A Atzeni was suspended from riding in races for one Hong Kong raceday to be conducted on Wednesday, 1 November 2023 at Happy Valley. In assessing penalty, the Stewards determined the carelessness grade 2 and the consequences grade 2 and also considered his excellent race riding record. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance, Z Purton stated that SPLENDID STAR settled comfortably in the early stages in a forward position. He said after the pace increased from the 1600 Metres, his mount was crossed by RING BELLS in the Back Straight and came under pressure from the 1000 Metres. He added with SPLENDID STAR stepping up in weight today and the pace of the event being quicker than at its last start, SPLENDID STAR, although interfered with at the 400 Metres, was still disappointing. Trainer D J Whyte concurred with the views offered by Jockey Purton and stated that SPLENDID STAR may not have appreciated racing within two weeks from its last start and may not also have appreciated the step-up in distance. A veterinary inspection immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of SPLENDID STAR, favourite for the race and a last start winner, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, SPLENDID STAR will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Was sent for sampling post-race. FIERY FLYING (G090): Was crowded on jumping. In the early and middle stages raced keenly. LOYAL AMBITION (E489): Blundered shortly after the start. A veterinary inspection immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. STARSHIP EIGHTY (H022): Was bumped heavily at the start when crowded. JOYFUL CHAMPION (G072): Jumped awkwardly and shifted out. Was sent for sampling post-race. RING BELLS (G036): Raced wide and without cover until near the 1000 Metres when it was allowed to stride forward and race outside the lead. A veterinary inspection immediately following the race found that horse to be a "roarer” which had previously been reported.