16/12/2012  Shatin  Race 7

GOOD HONG KONG stumbled at the start. FIERY RAIDER, which was leaning on the inside of its barrier as the start was effected, began awkwardly. FORZA was crowded for room at the start between MAROON PRINCE and OYSTER which shifted out. From the outside barrier, HAPPY FRIENDS was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, SUPREME HONG KONG failed to muster speed. Passing the 1000 Metres, SUPREME HONG KONG was awkwardly placed inside the heels of OYSTER. In the early part of the Straight, TIME WINNER got its head on the side and lay in. For the majority of the race, OYSTER travelled wide and without cover. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of T Angland (GOOD HONG KONG), 7th placegetter, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out at least hands and heels to the end of the race where circumstances permit. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of FIERY RAIDER, T Clark stated that after beginning only fairly, he had to ride the horse along in the early stages to take up a forward position. He said after being able to obtain the lead passing the 1000 Metres, FIERY RAIDER, which was up in grade today, was taken on in the lead by FORZA. He said because of this the horse travelled only fairly and after responding satisfactorily to his riding in the early part of the Straight weakened over the final 200 Metres. He added that, in his opinion, the step up in grade combined with the fact that FIERY RAIDER was not able to get a soft lead could account for the horse’s disappointing performance. A veterinary inspection of FIERY RAIDER after the race did not show any significant findings. SUPREME HONG KONG, MAROON PRINCE and FLYING CHINA were sent for sampling.