12/02/2013  Shatin  Race 5

NOBLE FLIER was slow to begin. From the outside barrier, WATCH FIRST was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. O Doleuze (KENSWORTH KID) was found guilty to a charge of careless riding [Rule 100(1)] in that near the 350 Metres he permitted his mount to shift out when not clear of PERFECT TEN, causing that horse to be checked when crowded for room inside the hindquarters of KUNG HEI FAT CHOI and to lose the running to which it was rightfully entitled. SUNSEEKER, which was following, was hampered in consequence. In this incident, KUNG HEI FAT CHOI became unbalanced when bumped on the hindquarters by PERFECT TEN. O Doleuze was suspended from riding in races for a period to expire on Sunday, 3 March 2013 on which day he may resume race riding (2 Hong Kong racedays). The commencement of the suspension was deferred until after the Sha Tin racemeeting on Sunday, 24 February 2013. In addition, O Doleuze was fined $40,000 in lieu of a suspension for a period incorporating one further raceday. After being held up for clear running rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, SMART GUY was checked when disappointed for running between KUNG HEI FAT CHOI and SPICY SIAM passing the 400 Metres. Near the 250 Metres, SUNSEEKER was shifted to the inside of NOBLE FLIER to obtain clear running. Near the 100 Metres, HORSESHOE FORTUNE was awkwardly placed close to the heels of SPICY SIAM when disappointed for running to the outside of that horse and inside KING ON EARTH which shifted in. In the Straight, WATCH FIRST hung in and proved difficult to ride. For the majority of the race, KUNG HEI FAT CHOI travelled wide and without cover. A veterinary inspection of PERFECT TEN including an endoscopic examination after the race showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, PERFECT TEN will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. The Stewards opened an inquiry into Apprentice K C Ng’s handling of MR SPEEDY from the 800 Metres. After taking evidence from Apprentice Ng, Mr B K Ng, the trainer of MR SPEEDY, and Mr K H Hung, assistant trainer allocated to Mr Ng’s stable, the matter was adjourned until a date to be fixed. A veterinary inspection of MR SPEEDY after the race did not show any significant findings. A veterinary inspection of KUNG HEI FAT CHOI and NOBLE FLIER after the race did not show any significant findings. NOBLE FLIER, KENSWORTH KID and SPICY SIAM were sent for sampling. <14/2/2013 Additional Veterinary Report> KUNG HEI FAT CHOI, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. KUNG HEI FAT CHOI was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer C S Shum yesterday morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be sore in the left front suspensory ligament. Before being allowed to race again, KUNG HEI FAT CHOI will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.