07/12/2011  Happy Valley  Race 8

On arrival at the Start, MARK UP, which made contact with a rail in the Parade Ring, was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. Approaching the winning post on the first occasion, EURO SWIFTLY got its head up on a number of occasions when travelling keenly behind HEAR THE ROAR. Passing the 1300 Metres, THE UNTOUCHABLELAD became unbalanced when checked away from the heels of EURO SWIFTLY. After the 1200 Metres, MARK UP was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 700 Metres, OSVALDO was steadied away from the heels of STRAIGHT FORWARD. At the entrance to the Straight, THE UNTOUCHABLELAD was shifted in away from the heels of STRAIGHT FORWARD. After the 200 Metres, FULFIL A WISH, which was commencing to give ground, was crowded for room inside FORTUNE RED PEPPER which got its head on the side and shifted in when also giving ground. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of M Barzalona (EURO SWIFTLY), placed 6th, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out at least hands and heels to the end of the race where circumstances permit. When questioned regarding his riding of HAPPY TUMBLER rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, B Prebble said that he had been following ZAIDAN throughout the race and passing the 400 Metres became awkwardly placed close to the heels of ZAIDAN. He said having in mind the manner in which HAPPY TUMBLER was travelling, he elected to shift to the outside of that horse and attempt to obtain clear running to the outside of EURO SWIFTLY which was racing to the outside of ZAIDAN. He said after being awkwardly placed close to the heels of EURO SWIFTLY for a short distance in the early part of the Straight, he shifted back to the inside of that horse when THE UNTOUCHABLELAD improved to his outside. He added after this HAPPY TUMBLER finished off the race only one-paced. B Prebble was advised that his explanation would be reported, however, his riding of HAPPY TUMBLER in the early part of the Straight had come under notice and that, in the opinion of the stewards, he should have continued to follow ZAIDAN. B Prebble was further advised to ensure that he avails himself of advantageous positions in races wherever possible. A veterinary inspection of HAPPY TUMBLER and FULFIL A WISH after the race did not show any significant findings. ZAIDAN, OSVALDO and HAPPY GUYS were sent for sampling.