01/05/2013  Shatin  Race 9

At declaration time, W M Lai was declared as the rider of both PALEPALE and GREAT RENOWN. It was established that W M Lai had a firm commitment to ride PALEPALE. As such, the Stewards permitted Apprentice K C Ng to be substituted as the rider of GREAT RENOWN. For this declaration error, W M Lai was fined $2,000. SLICK BULLET, which was fractious in the barriers, began only fairly. After the 800 Metres, GOLD EDITION was steadied away from the heels of IMPECCABLE (Apprentice C Y Lui) which shifted in when not properly clear. Apprentice Lui was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in future. Near the 750 Metres, PALEPALE was awkwardly placed close to the heels of MULTIVICTORY when being shifted across behind that horse. FLYING CHINA was badly held up for clear running until after the 200 Metres and passing the 150 Metres was shifted out away from the heels of GREAT RENOWN to continue improving. Approaching the 100 Metres, IMPECCABLE, which was giving ground, was tightened for room inside CHINA POWER (C K Tong) which shifted in when also giving ground. C K Tong was advised to exercise more care. Close to the finishing line, HAPPY FOREVER was steadied away from the heels of MULTIVICTORY (M Chadwick) which shifted out under pressure. M Chadwick was severely reprimanded for failing to take sufficient measures to prevent his mount from shifting ground. He was further advised that his riding record in respect of careless riding matters this season was of concern to the Stewards and he must take measures to ensure that he rides his mounts in such a manner so as to prevent causing interference to other runners. Throughout the race, MULTIVICTORY and HAPPY FOREVER travelled wide and without cover. After the race, an endoscopic examination was conducted on PALEPALE at the request of Trainer D E Ferraris. The Veterinary Surgeon said this examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, PALEPALE will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Also after the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that GREAT RENOWN had lost its right front plate. A veterinary inspection of IMPECCABLE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SLICK BULLET and MULTIVICTORY were sent for sampling.