07/03/2012  Happy Valley  Race 1

Just prior to the start being effected, FULL VERSION turned its head to the right and consequently was slow to begin. HERO AND GOLD was crowded for room at the start between RUN TO WIN and FAST INTENTIONS which was taken out by MY BEST CHOICE. YOUNG SUPREME was slow to begin and was then taken across behind runners. Making the first turn, METRO RIDER got its head on the side and hung out. Then making the turn after the 600 Metres, METRO RIDER again hung out and was checked away from the heels of FLYING KEEPER. HERO AND GOLD, which was following, was hampered in consequence. The racing manners of METRO RIDER were considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, METRO RIDER will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial around a bend. Passing the 700 Metres, BLESS US ALL got its head up when momentarily awkwardly placed outside the heels of YOUNG SUPREME. In this incident, BLESS US ALL shifted in and bumped FULL VERSION. Approaching the 200 Metres, HEY HA MASTER and FLYING KEEPER raced tight. Passing the 100 Metres, HERO AND GOLD was shifted to the outside of FAIRY DRAGON to continue improving. Throughout the race, RUN TO WIN travelled wide and without cover. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of A Suborics (HERO AND GOLD), 4th placegetter, 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. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that MY BEST CHOICE was lame in the right front leg. Before being allowed to race again, MY BEST CHOICE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of FULL VERSION after the race revealed the horse to have sustained abrasions to the inside of the right hock. MY BEST CHOICE, HEY HA MASTER and FLYING KEEPER were sent for sampling.