18/09/2011  Shatin  Race 5

SOHNA blundered at the start and consequently lost ground. SEASONS CREST was checked on jumping when crowded for room between DRAGON VICTORY and JOHNSON which got its head up and shifted out. From wide barriers, PEPPERMINT and WADASURPRISE were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. For some distance approaching the 900 Metres, SOHNA raced tight between DRAGON VICTORY which had been shifted away from the fence and TELECOM TOP STAR (M Du Plessis) which shifted in. M Du Plessis was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he leaves comfortable racing room for runners to his inside in future. After this, TELECOM TOP STAR travelled wide and without cover. Approaching and passing the 800 Metres, SEASONS CREST lost ground when reluctant to maintain its position inside MASTER ELITE. Near the 650 Metres, JOHNSON got its head up and became unbalanced when awkwardly placed close to the heels of SWEETIE MUSIC. Near the 200 Metres, ROMANCING TAMAR, which was commencing to give ground, was momentarily steadied when crowded for room between PEPPERMINT and MASTER ELITE, both of which shifted ground. Whilst the Stewards were of the opinion that Apprentice C Y Ho’s riding out of PEPPERMINT, 4th placegetter, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, nonetheless he was, in the presence of his allocated trainer, Mr C Fownes, reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out right to the end of the race where circumstances permit. When questioned, G Cheyne stated that at its final start last season it had been intended for HONEY FORTUNE to be ridden with cover in order for the filly to be more settled in its races. He said however that due to the circumstances of that race HONEY FORTUNE was obliged to lead and then did not finish off the race. He stated in today’s race, from barrier 13, he had been instructed to ride HONEY FORTUNE in a midfield position if possible, however, his overriding instruction was to ensure that the filly was settled and was then able to finish off the race. He said from the wide barrier he was obliged to ride HONEY FORTUNE further back in the field than had been intended, however, the filly settled well. He added that when placed under pressure HONEY FORTUNE closed off the race well and over the concluding stages was awkwardly placed close to the heels of JOHN DORY. A veterinary inspection of SWEETIE MUSIC after the race did not show any significant findings. PEPPERMINT, SHINY DAY and CHANCELLOR were sent for sampling.