12/05/2012  Shatin  Race 2

WIND CHARGER, which was leaning on the outside of its stall, was slow to begin. TOP POWER began awkwardly. Approaching the 1000 Metres, SPECTACULAR AWARD was momentarily crowded for room between BILLION GAINS and HEARTLAND which shifted in. Near the 600 Metres, WISER lost ground when being checked away from the heels of SILVER DRAGON. SILVER DRAGON was held up for clear running rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight was disappointed for running between DIVINITY POWER and SHANGHAI PIONEER which was taken in by TOP POWER. After this, SILVER DRAGON continued to have difficulty obtaining clear running and passing the 250 Metres was shifted out after being disappointed for running between SHANGHAI PIONEER and DIVINITY POWER which was shifted out after being held up for clear running in the early part of the Straight. Approaching the 100 Metres, BILLION GAINS and BEAR ELITE raced tight. Throughout the race, SPECTACULAR AWARD travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, Y T Cheng (PERFECT HEDGE) stated that he had been instructed to be positive on the horse in the early stages and lead if possible. He said in accordance with his instructions he rode PERFECT HEDGE vigorously in the early stages after the horse had been somewhat fractious in the barriers. He said however that when being ridden along his saddle shifted back and had it not been for the breast plate it would have continued to shift back further. He said in the early stages he attempted to rectify the saddle, however, he was not able to do so and because of this was not able to obtain a forward position as instructed. He added that he attempted to ride PERFECT HEDGE, which was wide and without cover, hands and heels during the race, however, his riding of the horse was significantly disadvantaged by the positioning of the saddle. On arrival back in the unsaddling area for unplaced runners, it was confirmed by Club’s Officials that Y T Cheng’s saddle had shifted back noticeably. A veterinary inspection of PERFECT HEDGE after the race did not show any significant findings other than the horse had lost its left front plate. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that WISER had bled from both nostrils. SPECTACULAR AWARD and DIVINITY POWER were sent for sampling.