08/05/2010  Shatin  Race 3

LUCKY SELECTION was crowded for room at the start between INFALLIBLE CHOICE and STILLYOUTURNMEON, both of which shifted ground. HOT SHOT began awkwardly. Near the 900 Metres, DANEWIN TIGER got its head up when being steadied. Passing the 400 Metres, SHY BALDY got its head on the side and hung in. Then, near the 300 Metres, SHY BALDY shifted ground inwards, resulting in BET ON ME being inconvenienced. At the 200 Metres, LUCKY SELECTION shifted out abruptly, resulting in DANEWIN TIGER being inconvenienced. Then, over the concluding stages, LUCKY SELECTION continued to shift out. Whilst the Stewards were completely satisfied that Apprentice C Y Ho’s riding of WINDICATOR RETURNS in close proximity to the winning post did not affect the horse’s placing, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out to the end of the race where circumstances permit. When questioned regarding the performance of FRESH AIR, Apprentice K W Leung stated that his mount travelled on the bridle for the first 600 Metres of the race, however, passing the 400 Metres came under pressure and after this did not respond to his riding and was disappointing. Trainer Y S Tsui stated that, in his opinion, the horse may not have backed up after its last start success when it had to be hard ridden to win the race. He also said that FRESH AIR is a three year old and at this stage of its career was somewhat lacking maturity. A veterinary inspection of FRESH AIR after the race did not show any significant findings. FRESH AIR, LUCKY SELECTION and BET ON ME were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that DANEWIN TIGER had lost its right front plate and that LUCKY SELECTION was distressed. Before being allowed to race again, LUCKY SELECTION will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.