27/11/2011  Shatin  Race 11

On arrival at the barriers, Z Purton, the rider of HEARTLINE, advised the Veterinary Officer that the horse had coughed on a number of occasions when proceeding to the Start. The Veterinary Officer said that there was no evidence of any nasal discharge and the horse was found suitable to race. On jumping, GOOD STRIKE and SUNRISE were crowded for room between GLORIOUS DAYS and TIME AFTER TIME, both of which shifted ground. SOUNDS EXCELLENT was slow to begin. Shortly after the start, HONEY FORTUNE was crowded for room between LEGEND EXPRESS and LAMBRO which was taken in by HEARTLINE. After this, HONEY FORTUNE was taken across behind runners. From wide barriers, THE UNTOUCHABLELAD and SUPREME FLIGHT were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. In the early stages, from a wide barrier, HEARTLINE was attempted to be taken across behind runners with a view to being ridden more quietly, however, HEARTLINE proved very difficult to settle and got its head up on a number of occasions. Then near the 1100 Metres, HEARTLINE was allowed to stride into a more forward position, however, throughout the race travelled wide and without cover. In the early and middle stages, CARRY THE ZEAL proved difficult to settle. In the early part of the Straight, SUPREME FLIGHT got its head on the side and hung in. Near the 100 Metres, SOUNDS EXCELLENT was checked when disappointed for running between CARRY THE ZEAL and SUPREME FLIGHT which was shifted to the inside of the heels of LEGEND EXPRESS. In the Straight, PO CHING KING hung out. Apprentice C Y Ho (SUPREME FLIGHT) will be spoken to regarding using the whip in the forehand manner down the horse’s shoulder on a number of occasions in the Straight. A veterinary inspection of CARRY THE ZEAL after the race did not show any significant findings. GLORIOUS DAYS and TIME AFTER TIME were sent for sampling.