19/02/2012  Shatin  Race 6

HELENE SPIRIT was withdrawn on 18.2.12 by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (galloped riderless at track work on 18.2.12) and was replaced by Standby Declared Starter KYARA (D Oliver). Before being allowed to race again, HELENE SPIRIT will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. EURO SWIFTLY was crowded for room at the start between JUST FANTASTIC and CARTHAGE. From a wide barrier, FLASHING AURA was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. After being ridden to lead, I SMELL MONEY proved difficult to settle in the early and middle stages. Rounding the Home Turn, FLASHING AURA was bumped by OLE OLE which shifted out. Shortly after this, FLASHING AURA was directed to the inside of the heels of OSVALDO. In the early part of the Straight, EURO SWIFTLY was shifted out from behind runners to obtain clear running. Close to the finishing line, RIO WILLIE was steadied when unable to continue improving when close to the heels of CROWN WITNESS. Because of this, RIO WILLIE was not able to be ridden out to the end of the race as it otherwise would be. Throughout the race, CARTHAGE travelled wide and without cover. After the race, Z Purton stated that OSVALDO got its head on the side and hung out after the 800 Metres. A veterinary inspection of OSVALDO, KYARA, BERIO and ST DIDAR after the race did not show any significant findings. CROWN WITNESS and FREE JUDGEMENT were sent for sampling.