07/11/2009  Shatin  Race 6

CLASSIC REUNION began awkwardly. Shortly after the start, BEST POWER was steadied when crowded for room between ICHIBAN and PACKING BUDDY (H W Lai) which shifted in. H W Lai was reprimanded and advised to ensure he is sufficiently clear prior to shifting ground in future. Also shortly after the start, THE ONLY KID was momentarily crowded for room inside TELECOM SUPER STAR which shifted in. Passing the 1400 Metres, WARM EMBRACES was steadied away from the heels of BEST POWER which shifted out momentarily. At the 800 Metres, TELECOM SUPER STAR was momentarily crowded for room between MARIACHI and CLASSIC REUNION which shifted in slightly. For some distance after the 700 Metres, MARIACHI got its head on the side and hung out. HORACE’S LEGEND was held up for clear running until near the 300 Metres. MONTE CRISTO was held up for clear running until near the 250 Metres. SLEEP WELL was also held up for clear running until near the 150 Metres. Throughout the race, VICTORY TREASURE travelled wide and without cover. CLASSIC REUNION also travelled wide and without cover for the majority of the race. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of ICHIBAN, D Whyte stated that, in his opinion, his mount was reluctant to stride out on today’s track surface. He said ICHIBAN travelled only fairly throughout the race and over the final 200 Metres gave ground. A veterinary inspection of ICHIBAN after the race did not show any significant findings. MARIACHI, THE ONLY KID and HORACE’S LEGEND were sent for sampling.