15/12/2013  Shatin  Race 4

SMART UNION was slow to begin. THUNDER FLYER began awkwardly and shortly after the start was crowded for room between EASY AHEAD which shifted out slightly and AMBITIOUS GLORY which shifted in after being bumped by VICTORY GENERAL. From the outside barrier, AMAZING GIFT was taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, EASY AHEAD failed to muster speed. Rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, AMAZING GIFT got its head on the side and hung in. Near the 200 Metres, AMAZING GIFT shifted out markedly, resulting in its rider changing his whip over to his left hand. Then when struck with the whip passing the 200 Metres, AMAZING GIFT shifted in abruptly, resulting in its rider putting the whip away and straightening his mount. Throughout the race, SUNSHINE KID travelled wide and without cover. After the race, H W Lai (AMBITIOUS GLORY) stated that his mount did not travel at any stage of the race. A veterinary inspection of AMBITIOUS GLORY immediately following the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, AMBITIOUS GLORY will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. Also after the race, the Veterinary Officer reported that THUNDER FLYER had lost its right front plate during the running of this race. A veterinary inspection of HURRY HURRY UP and EASY AHEAD immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. THUNDER FLYER, EASY SUCCESS and SUNSHINE KID were sent for sampling.