05/04/2009  Shatin  Race 2

On jumping, MAGIC TEMPLE and SPEEDY were taken back. Entering the Back Straight, RICH DRAGON, which had been racing wide and without cover, was allowed to stride forward. After entering the Back Straight, GREAT HERO was left racing wide and without cover. At the 450 Metres, SUPER PEGASUS was steadied when awkwardly placed inside the heels of FORTUNE HAVEN and tight outside SPEEDY which was commencing to shift out to obtain clear running. The performance of INDUSTRIAL MARVEL, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, INDUSTRIAL MARVEL will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned, Apprentice K C Leung (NEEDLES AND THREAD) said he had been instructed to ride his mount in a position behind the lead if possible. He said NEEDLES AND THREAD began well and he obtained a two wide position behind the lead as instructed in the early stages. He said NEEDLES AND THREAD travelled comfortably and after entering the Back Straight he came back away from the heels of INDUSTRIAL MARVEL to ensure his mount was relaxed. He said near the 1100 Metres INDUSTRIAL MARVEL permitted RICH DRAGON to cross and as a consequence NEEDLES AND THREAD travelled in a midfield position, however, continued to travel nicely. He said near the 800 Metres SUPER PEGASUS which had travelled forward of him on his outside commenced to shift in. He said as NEEDLES AND THREAD was travelling well, he did not ride his mount along to prevent SUPER PEGASUS from shifting. He said shortly after the 500 Metres SUPER PEGASUS came under pressure and commenced to give ground and as a consequence NEEDLES AND THREAD was taken back through the field to be in last position on straightening. He said NEEDLES AND THREAD closed the race off strongly in the Home Straight. Apprentice Leung was told his riding in the middle stages of the race had come under notice and in similar circumstances he would be expected to maintain his position. BULLISH WIN was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of BULLISH WIN after the race did not show any significant findings. NEEDLES AND THREAD, STILTON and FORTUNE HAVEN were sent for sampling.