18/11/2012  Shatin  Race 9

FLYING BLUE was slow to begin. TIME AFTER TIME began awkwardly and then shortly after the start was checked when crowded for room between LUCKY NINE and LITTLE BRIDGE which shifted out. From a wide barrier, ABLE SPEED was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Passing the 900 Metres, FLYING BLUE was momentarily crowded for room inside LITTLE BRIDGE which got its head on the side and shifted in marginally. ADMIRATION had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. FLYING BLUE also had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight and passing the 300 Metres was steadied away from the heels of ARRIVED AHEAD which shifted out when weakening. For the majority of the race, LEGENDARY DRAGON and CAPTAIN SWEET travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the performance of LITTLE BRIDGE, Z Purton stated that his mount travelled reasonably throughout the race, however, finished off the race only fairly when placed under pressure in the Straight. He did say that, in his opinion, LITTLE BRIDGE would benefit greatly from today’s race. A veterinary inspection of LITTLE BRIDGE after the race did not show any significant findings. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that SUPER EASY had lost its left front plate. An endoscopic examination was conducted on SUPER EASY at the request of Trainer M J Freedman following the race. The Veterinary Surgeon said this examination after the race showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, SUPER EASY will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Also after the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that FLYING BLUE had sustained a cut to its right knee. A veterinary inspection of AASHIQ after the race did not show any significant findings. LUCKY NINE and TIME AFTER TIME were sent for sampling.