18/09/2010  Shatin  Race 4

METRO RIDER began awkwardly and shortly after the start shifted out and bumped COVER BOY which became unbalanced. EPEE DE HUA shifted in at the start and bumped BINGO KEY. From a wider barrier, DECAGONAL was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Despite being vigorously ridden along in the early and middle stages, TOUCH LUCKY refused to stretch out and passing the 800 Metres was eased down by its rider. A veterinary inspection of TOUCH LUCKY after the race revealed that the horse was lame in the left hind leg, was found to have a substantial amount of blood in its trachea and has previously been reported a “roarer”. Before being allowed to race again, TOUCH LUCKY will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Passing the 150 Metres, COVER BOY, which shifted in, was steadied away from the heels of DASH which also shifted out at this time. Throughout the race, LUCKY TYCOON travelled wide and without cover. Whilst the Stewards considered the riding out of J Lloyd (COVER BOY) over the concluding stages did not affect that horse’s placing in the race, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to vigorously ride his mounts out to the end of the race where circumstances permit. A veterinary inspection of GRAND GENERAL after the race did not show any significant findings. LIONS’ FORTUNE, KIMBERLEY and DASH were sent for sampling.