04/12/2010  Shatin  Race 10

MATSUKAZE, which was leaning against the inside of it stall as the start was effected, began awkwardly and got its head up. Because of this, MATSUKAZE raced back in the field. TELECOM TOP STAR shifted out at the start and made heavy contact with WINDICATOR POWER which became unbalanced. After this, WINDICATOR POWER was taken across behind runners. Passing the 1000 Metres, KYARA commenced to over-race, shifted out when being checked away from the heels of EN MASSE and made contact with the hindquarters of HUSSLER. Near the 200 Metres, EN MASSE, which was giving ground, was steadied away from the heels of WINDICATOR POWER (G Mossé) which shifted in when endeavouring to obtain clear running. G Mossé was advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. The performance of MATSUKAZE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, MATSUKAZE 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, D Whyte said that after HUSSLER began well, he went forward on the horse as instructed. He said EN MASSE and EIGHT PLUS NINE were aggressively ridden in the early stages to maintain forward positions. He said he continued to allow HUSSLER to stride forward in the hope that he would be able to cross EN MASSE and race outside the eventual leader, GROOVY. He said when he was allowing GROOVY to cross, HUSSLER was then reluctant to maintain its position and when EN MASSE continued to be ridden into a forward position, he elected to attempt to shift to a position behind EN MASSE. He said at this time however KYARA improved to be racing behind that horse, therefore he was left racing three wide and without cover for the remainder of the event. HELENE WITTY, KYARA and EIGHT PLUS NINE were sent for sampling.