04/05/2011  Happy Valley  Race 8

SOVIET PEARL was withdrawn on 3.5.11 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (fever). Before being allowed to race again, SOVIET PEARL will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Prior to being transported to Happy Valley, Trainer A Schutz reported that UPGRADING had trotted up slightly short in its left front leg this morning. UPGRADING was examined by the Veterinary Officer in the holding stalls and after being trotted up was found suitable to race. From wide barriers, HAPPY TUMBLER and STRAIGHT FORWARD were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. When being steadied approaching the winning post on the first occasion, PERFECT STYLE got its head up and shifted out, resulting in EASY WINNER being crowded for room inside OPERATION SECRET. After being ridden along in the early stages to obtain the lead, PERFECT GEAR, despite the efforts of its rider, proved difficult to settle. Near the 1100 Metres, EASY WINNER proved difficult to settle and was checked away from the heels of UPGRADING. Shortly after entering the Straight, ABSOLUTE HEDGE got is head on the side, shifted in and made contact with GREAT ACHIEVEMENT. This resulted in both horses becoming unbalanced. UPGRADING, which was following ABSOLUTE HEDGE, was held up behind that horse passing the 300 Metres. After the 200 Metres, ABSOLUTE HEDGE, which was commencing to give ground, was steadied when momentarily tightened for room between FORTUNE RED PEPPER and GREAT ACHIEVEMENT which shifted out. A veterinary inspection of STRAIGHT FORWARD and OPERATION SECRET after the race did not show any significant findings. EXPRESS WIN and HAPPY TUMBLER were sent for sampling.