21/02/2024  Happy Valley  Race 4

DUKE WAI (C188): Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of A Atzeni, 7th placegetter, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ensure that he fully rides his mounts out to the finish of the race. After the race, A Atzeni stated that with the early section of the race run inside the standard, his mount was under pressure throughout the event. A veterinary inspection immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. ADIOS (G338): Leaving the 300 Metres attempted a run between KURPANY and MAJESTIC KNIGHT where there was doubtful room and a short distance later was checked when disappointed for this run when MAJESTIC KNIGHT (B Thompson) shifted in slightly. Whilst the Stewards found that the principal reason for the interference was that there was not sufficient room for ADIOS to improve into the run, B Thompson was nevertheless to exercise more care. SON PAK FU (G265): Jumped only fairly and then was bumped shortly after the start. After the race, an endoscopic examination was conducted on SON PAK FU at the request of Trainer T P Yung. The Veterinary Surgeon said this examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse’s trachea. Before being allowed to race again, SON PAK FU will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Sent for sampling post-race. KURPANY (D172): No report. MAJESTIC KNIGHT (G258): B Thompson pleaded guilty to a careless riding charge for causing interference near the 150 Metres (see BEAUTY CHARGE). BUNDLE OF CHARM (G213): In the middle stages raced keenly. Sent for sampling post-race. BEAUTY CHARGE (G231): Approaching the 350 Metres became momentarily unbalanced when positioned tight to the inside of BUNDLE OF CHARM. B Thompson (MAJESTIC KNIGHT) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 150 Metres he allowed his mount to shift out when insufficiently clear of BEAUTY CHARGE, resulting in BEAUTY CHARGE losing its rightful running and having to be checked. B Thompson was suspended from riding in races for one Hong Kong raceday to be conducted on Wednesday, 13 March 2024 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. TOMODACHI KOKOROE (H303): Sent for sampling post-race.