08/09/2012  Shatin  Race 4

EKRAAR EMPEROR began awkwardly. REDOUTE’S FORTUNE was slow to begin. Shortly after the start, METREVELLI was hampered by YOUNG SUPREME which shifted out. After the 1200 Metres, CAGA SPIRIT got its head up and proved difficult to settle when awkwardly placed close to the heels of GORGEOUS LIFE. Near the 700 Metres, TREASURE GLITTER was steadied away from the heels of EKRAAR EMPEROR. For the majority of the race, MEGA POSH travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of GORGEOUS LIFE, D Whyte stated that although his mount travelled keenly for a short distance after the 1000 Metres when racing close to the heels of EPEE DE HUA, the horse travelled satisfactorily in the early and middle stages. He said however that rounding the Home Turn GORGEOUS LIFE did not quicken when placed under pressure and despite being ridden along did not finish off the race as he expected and, in his opinion, was disappointing. A veterinary inspection of GORGEOUS LIFE after the race did not show any significant findings. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of BLESSING WIN, Z Purton stated that, from the outside barrier, it had been hoped that the horse would be able to obtain a position with cover behind the leaders. He said however that due to the circumstances of the race, BLESSING WIN was obliged to race outside of the leader, YOUNG SUPREME, without cover. He said although he had to make some use of BLESSING WIN to obtain a forward position in the early stages, he became concerned when it came off the bridle as far out as the 700 Metres. He added that he placed BLESSING WIN under pressure prior to the Home Turn, however, the horse quickly gave ground and in the Straight weakened out of the race noticeably. Z Purton stated that BLESSING WIN became unbalanced in its action when giving ground and gave him the impression that it may have bled, however, after the race it appeared to be sound. A veterinary inspection of BLESSING WIN after the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of BLESSING WIN was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, BLESSING WIN will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that YOUNG SUPREME had lost its left front plate. GORGEOUS LIFE, CAGA SPIRIT and TREASURE GLITTER were sent for sampling.