11/07/2012  Happy Valley  Race 7

On jumping, C K Tong (COLUMBUS LINE) lost the use of his right iron for a short distance. From wide barriers, TURF MAGIC and SUPER TIGER were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Near the 1100 Metres, KICK SERVE was crowded for room between MONEYMAKER and COLUMBUS LINE which was taken out by SIMPLE which shifted ground after being bumped by SHAHJEE. Near the 1000 Metres, SHAHJEE was steadied away from the heels of SHIBALA which got its head on the side and shifted out. Approaching the 800 Metres, SHAHJEE got its head on the side and hung out towards the heels of COLUMBUS LINE, resulting in SHAHJEE being awkwardly placed close to the heels of that horse for some distance. Rounding the Home Turn, MONEYMAKER was hampered by TURF MAGIC which shifted out to obtain clear running. Throughout the race, COLUMBUS LINE travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. When questioned, J McDonald stated that he had been asked to ride SIMPLE behind the leaders if possible. He said however that in the early stages he was left racing wide and for this reason he allowed SIMPLE to improve its position to race outside the leader, RED LUCKY STAR rather than cover unnecessary ground. He said SIMPLE was able to improve its position at this time without having to be made use of and then travelled comfortably. After the race the Veterinary Officer reported that SHIBALA was lame in the right front leg. Before being allowed to race again, SHIBALA will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of COLUMBUS LINE after the race did not show any significant findings. TURF MAGIC and SIMPLE were sent for sampling.