23/03/2011  Shatin  Race 6

HOLLYWOOD KISS was withdrawn on 22.3.11 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (lame right fore). Before being allowed to race again, HOLLYWOOD KISS will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. PENGLAI XIANZI began awkwardly and for a short distance after the start was unbalanced in its action. After the 1400 Metres, EXPRESS WIN was steadied when crowded for room between GREAT ACHIEVEMENT and KING AL AKBAR which shifted out away from the heels of TRES MAGNIFIQUE. In the early stages, GREAT ACHIEVEMENT travelled wide and without cover and near the 1000 Metres was allowed to stride forward. After the 800 Metres, PENGLAI XIANZI was left racing wide and without cover. OLE OLE had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. Passing the 100 Metres, KING AL AKBAR got its head on the side and shifted out, resulting in PENGLAI XIANZI being taken wider. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of EXPRESS WIN, D Whyte stated that after striking minor interference after the 1400 Metres, EXPRESS WIN travelled well in a good position with cover until rounding the Home Turn. He said at this time EXPRESS WIN came under pressure and was not travelling well enough to prevent MIGHTY SUN, the eventual winner of the race, from shifting out. He said despite being placed under pressure in the Straight, EXPRESS WIN was most disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of EXPRESS WIN and WINDICATOR RETURNS after the race did not show any significant findings. EXPRESS WIN, MIGHTY SUN and KING AL AKBAR were sent for sampling.