21/01/2012  Shatin  Race 1

CHEERFUL DOUBLE was slow to begin. For some distance after the start, BINGO KEY and ICE FIRE raced tight, resulting in both horses making contact on a number of occasions. Shortly after the start, FULL VERSION was crowded for room between BRIGHT SPIRITS and GREAT HERO, both of which shifted ground. From a wide barrier, STORM’S DESTINY was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. After the 1400 Metres, DAILY DOUBLE was left racing wide and without cover and near the 1200 Metres was allowed to stride into a more position outside the leader. Near the 600 Metres, GREAT HERO was awkwardly placed inside the heels of BRIGHT SPIRITS. At the entrance to the Straight, BROTHERS IN ARMS was steadied when held up for clear running behind SUPER PEPPER and DAILY DOUBLE. Also at the entrance to the Straight, ICE FIRE was held up for clear running behind PRINCE OF SUNSHINE. After the 250 Metres, BROTHERS IN ARMS got its head on the side, hung out and proved difficult to ride. Close to the line, ICE FIRE was awkwardly placed close to the heels of M’S MAGIC. Throughout the race, BRIGHT SPIRITS travelled wide and without cover. M Guyon (BROTHERS IN ARMS) was spoken to regarding raising his whip arm above shoulder height in the Straight. He was advised that should he offend in future, consideration will be given to taking further action. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SUPER PEPPER, Apprentice C Y Ho said that his mount travelled more keenly than when he rode the horse at its most recent start when successful. He said he commenced to ride his mount along after the 400 Metres and it initially responded well to his urgings, however, came under pressure near the 300 Metres. He said after riding his mount along from this point, SUPER PEPPER was then disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that STORM’S DESTINY had sustained a cut to the right stifle. A veterinary inspection of GREAT HERO, SUPER PEPPER and CHEERFUL DOUBLE after the race did not show any significant findings. PRINCE OF SUNSHINE, MIRAGE R and M’S MAGIC were sent for sampling.