07/03/2012  Happy Valley  Race 6

YUAN’S FORTUNE was slow to begin and shortly after the start was bumped by HORSESHOE FORTUNE. From the outside barrier, MAGNANIMOUS was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. For some distance after the 1000 Metres, DARK SECRET was awkwardly placed close to the heels of SOLDIER. When questioned regarding the performance of BUMPER STRIKE, D Whyte stated that although his mount was obliged to race three wide and without cover from barrier 10 tonight, the horse nonetheless was disappointing in that it came under pressure after the 600 Metres to maintain its position. He said despite being ridden along BUMPER STRIKE commenced to give ground and weakened noticeably in the Straight. He added BUMPER STRIKE had been racing consistently in its recent starts but tonight raced “flat”. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SOLDIER, B Prebble stated that after beginning well he shifted SOLDIER across to obtain a position in about midfield in the early stages. He said approaching the winning post on the first occasion he noticed that HEI HEI POSH, a favourite for the race, was racing in a three wide position and it was available for him to improve to race to the inside of that horse, therefore he rode his mount along to obtain this position. He said after this SOLDIER travelled only fairly and came on and off the bridle at various stages throughout the race. He added after the 600 Metres SOLDIER was awkwardly placed amongst runners and was reluctant to maintain its position. He said for this reason after the 500 Metres he commenced to ride SOLDIER along to hold its position. He said in the Straight when placed under pressure SOLDIER did not respond to his riding and, in his opinion, was disappointing in its failure to finish off the race. He said, in hindsight, SOLDIER may not have appreciated having use made of it in the early stages and may appreciate being ridden more quietly than it was tonight. A veterinary inspection of SOLDIER and BESPOKE MASTER after the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that MAGNANIMOUS was mildly lame in the right front leg. HEI HEI POSH, MAGNANIMOUS and YUAN’S FORTUNE were sent for sampling.