15/07/2012  Shatin  Race 11

From wide barriers, FAT CHOY OOHLALA and OUTDOOR PEGASUS were taken across behind runners shortly after the start. M L Yeung (SUPREME WIN) pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 1400 Metres he permitted his mount to shift in when not clear of CHATER WAY, causing that horse to be severely checked and taken in onto TURF EXPRESS which in turn was taken in onto SMART GIANT which shifted in, resulting in LET ME HANDLE IT being taken across the rightful running of MILITARY MOVE which was also severely checked. In this incident, MILITARY MOVE made heavy contact with the hindquarters of MR MEDICI which became badly unbalanced. FAMILISTS, OUTDOOR PEGASUS and FAT CHOY OOHLALA, all of which were following, were hampered in consequence. After hearing a submission by M L Yeung in regards to penalty, the Stewards acceded to a request from him to impose a monetary fine in lieu of a period of suspension from riding in races. In the circumstances and having regard to M L Yeung’s race riding record this season, the Stewards believed the appropriate penalty was for him to be fined a sum of $120,000 in lieu of a period of suspension incorporating four (4) Hong Kong racedays. Throughout the race, TURF EXPRESS and CHATER WAY travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SMART GIANT, B Prebble stated that his mount began very awkwardly and took some strides to rebalance. He said that SMART GIANT was badly crowded for room near the 1400 Metres and was buffeted for room between horses for some distance. He said after this incident, SMART GIANT came off the bridle and as far out as the 900 Metres was under pressure to maintain its position. He added he placed SMART GIANT under pressure in the Straight, however, the horse did not respond to his riding. He stated that, in his opinion, today’s performance could be attributed solely to the interference the horse sustained in the early stages. A veterinary inspection of SMART GIANT after the race did not show any significant findings. SMART GIANT, DAN EXCEL and FAMILISTS were sent for sampling. <16/7/2012 Additional Veterinary Report>SMART GIANT, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. SMART GIANT was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer J Moore this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in the right front leg with a cut to the right front fetlock. Before being allowed to race again, SMART GIANT will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.