15/09/2013  Shatin  Race 2

BAMBOO DANCE and SPICY SIAM were slow to begin. Rounding the Home Turn, EPEE DE HUA got its head on the side and lay out. At the entrance to the Straight, FIERY PATROL was momentarily awkwardly placed close to the heels of TOP POWER when being shifted to the outside of that horse into clear running. After the 200 Metres, HUMONGUS got its head on the side and hung in under pressure. Over the final 100 Metres, SPICY SIAM was awkwardly placed close to the heels of HAPPY KAISER. Because of this, SPICY SIAM was not able to be fully tested in the run to the line. When questioned, H W Lai stated that, from barrier 3, he had been asked to ride SMART GUY in about 4th or 5th position if possible. He said after beginning well, he obtained a position one horse off the fence behind SOUTHERN SPRINGS which he expected to shift across to a position on the rail after the 1300 Metres. He said as SOUTHERN SPRINGS was not clear of HAPPY KAISER after the 1200 Metres, SOUTHERN SPRINGS remained racing in a one-off position and as SMART GUY was racing to the outside of SOUTHERN SPRINGS at this time, SMART GUY was then left racing in a three wide position and after the 1100 Metres was left racing without cover. A veterinary inspection of SMART GUY immediately following the race revealed that the horse was displaying an irregular heart rhythm. Before being allowed to race again, SMART GUY will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that EPEE DE HUA had bled from both nostrils. A veterinary inspection of FIERY PATROL immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. SOUTHERN SPRINGS and HAPPY KAISER were sent for sampling.