17/02/2013  Shatin  Race 8

Whilst in the saddling stalls, ELEGANCE KLAMMER had its left hind plate refitted. ELEGANCE KLAMMER was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. SILVER GRECIAN was slow to begin. RAINBOW CHIC was crowded for room at the start between REAL SUPREME and BERIO which shifted out. After being ridden along to maintain its position inside AOMEN approaching the 1400 Metres, RAINBOW CHIC then proved difficult to settle for a considerable distance and got its head up on a number of occasions when awkwardly placed close to the heels of REAL SUPREME. After the 1000 Metres, AOMEN was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 700 Metres, CALIFORNIA DUDE was steadied away from the heels of SILVER GRECIAN. Passing the 500 Metres, NOBLE ALPHA and RAINBOW CHIC (Z Purton) raced tight as RAINBOW CHIC shifted out away from the heels of HEALTH WISE which was commencing to give ground. In this incident, NOBLE ALPHA became unbalanced. Z Purton was advised that whilst competitive riding is encouraged, nonetheless he must exercise care when shifting ground in similar circumstances. SILVER GRECIAN had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. The performance of ELEGANCE KLAMMER, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, ELEGANCE KLAMMER will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of RAINBOW CHIC after the race did not show any significant findings. NOBLE ALPHA, AOMEN and FREE JUDGEMENT were sent for sampling.