21/12/2011  Happy Valley  Race 4

NEW LEADER was slow to begin. SUCCESSFUL ERA, which was leaning on the outside of its stall, was also slow to begin. From the outside barrier, DIVIDEND CHAMPION was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Shortly after the start, SURE FORWARD shifted in and bumped FULL VALUE. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, GOLDEN TREASURE became unbalanced and lost ground when awkwardly placed close to the heels of NOBLE DE BEST. Passing the 1300 Metres, NOBLE DE BEST got its head up when being steadied away from the heels of FULL VALUE. Near the 900 Metres, NOVEL START, which was proving difficult to settle, was taken in to a three wide position by EASY AHEAD which shifted out after being crossed by JOYFUL WINNER II. Then approaching the 800 Metres, NOVEL START, which was continuing to prove difficult to settle, shifted out away from the heels of GOOD LUCK WIN and afterwards was left racing wide and without cover. Passing the 600 Metres, SURE FORWARD and DIVIDEND CHAMPION raced tight. Near the 450 Metres, DIVIDEND CHAMPION was steadied when momentarily crowded for room between SURE FORWARD which shifted out and GOOD LUCK WIN which was giving ground abruptly. D Whyte explained that after racing fiercely throughout the race, NOVEL START had difficulty making the turn after the 600 Metres and he was required to restrain the horse heavily to have it get around this turn. He said because of the manner in which NOVEL START had raced, he did not ride it out in the Straight as it was a beaten horse well prior to the 600 Metres. D Whyte was reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out at least hands and heels wherever circumstances permit. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that GOOD LUCK WIN had bled from both nostrils. A veterinary inspection of DIVIDEND CHAMPION after the race revealed that the horse was displaying an irregular heart rhythm. Before being allowed to race again, DIVIDEND CHAMPION will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of GOLDEN TREASURE, JOYFUL WINNER II and NOVEL START after the race did not show any significant findings. SUPREME GENKI and NEW LEADER were sent for sampling.