12/09/2010  Shatin  Race 10

VAUGIRARD was buffeted when crowded for room at the start between CALIFORNIA MOON and DRAGON FIGHTER which at this time was taken out by BILLION. In this incident, both DRAGON FIGHTER and VAUGIRARD became badly unbalanced and lost ground and CALIFORNIA MOON also became unbalanced when bumped on the hindquarters by VAUGIRARD. Because of this, VAUGIRARD raced back in the field. Shortly after the start, MIGHTY SUN was steadied when crowded for room between MY HOME TOWN and EASY WINNER, both of which shifted ground. Approaching the 1000 Metres, EXCEPTIONAL ART was steadied away from the heels of TAKE THE RAP which at this time shifted in when awkwardly placed close to the heels of BILLION. In this incident, FLYING IN, which was racing to the inside of EXCEPTIONAL ART, was bumped and became unbalanced. Making the first turn near the 850 Metres, DRAGON FIGHTER raced tight between SOARING DRAGON and EXCEPTIONAL ART which got its head up and made the turn awkwardly. Passing the 700 Metres, VAUGIRARD raced tight between PRESTO and HAPPY BOY which shifted out. In the Straight, VAUGIRARD had difficulty obtaining clear running until near the 100 Metres. Also in the Straight, HAPPY BOY hung out under pressure and proved difficult to ride. Throughout the race, SOARING DRAGON travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of EXCEPTIONAL ART, H W Lai stated that, in his opinion, the horse did not handle today’s “Yielding” track conditions. He said he had ridden EXCEPTIONAL ART in its track work and in its trial this season and on all occasions the horse had worked well. He said however on today’s rain affected track, the horse did not stretch out as it had done in its track work and in its trial. A veterinary inspection of EXCEPTIONAL ART after the race did not show any significant findings. HAPPY BOY, SOARING DRAGON and VAUGIRARD were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that MY HOME TOWN had lost its left front plate.