01/01/2011  Shatin  Race 11

Shortly after the start, CORPORAL JONES was bumped by SAPELLI which itself raced tight inside MARK UP. In the early stages, FLEET COMMAND, after beginning awkwardly from the outside barrier, travelled wide and without cover and after the 1400 Metres was allowed to stride forward. However, FLEET COMMAND continued to race wide and without cover. When the pace slackened near the 1200 Metres, SAPELLI proved difficult to settle and was checked away from the heels of OLE OLE. Passing the 900 Metres, MARK UP over-raced and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of ENHANCED. Passing the 300 Metres, INTERCHINA STAR, which was commencing to give ground, was momentarily steadied when crowded for room between ENHANCED and CALIFORNIA MEMORY which got its head on the side and shifted out. Passing the 200 Metres, MARK UP was steadied when shifting out from behind FLEET COMMAND to obtain clear running. When questioned, D Beadman stated that it had been intended for XTENSION to be ridden in a position midfield or slightly behind midfield. He said after being loaded XTENSION became very fractious in the barriers on a number of occasions and as the start was effected began very awkwardly, shifted in and made contact with the inside gate of its stall. He said because of this XTENSION was slow to begin. He said after this he shifted XTENSION across to the fence, however, the horse was obliged to race further back in the field than had been intended. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of ENHANCED, D Whyte stated that his mount travelled satisfactorily until passing the 600 Metres. He said at this time he shifted out from behind INTERCHINA STAR as he did not believe that that horse would take him into the race. He said when he shifted out, ENHANCED brushed FLEET COMMAND and became unbalanced. He added in the early part of the Straight ENHANCED changed lead legs on a number of occasions and near the 300 Meters made contact with FLEET COMMAND. He said after this ENHANCED, despite him riding the horse out, got its head on the side and was disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of ENHANCED after the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that HOLLYWOOD KISS had lost its right front plate. CALIFORNIA MEMORY and XTENSION were sent for sampling.