08/02/2014  Shatin  Race 1

Whilst in the saddling stalls, OPTIMIZATION STAR had its left hind plate refitted. OPTIMIZATION STAR was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. WIN IT began awkwardly. From wide barriers, SPLENDID GUY, ROBUST MOMENTUM and STREET CAT were all taken across behind runners shortly after the start. Approaching the 900 Metres, NO TIES was checked when crowded for room inside RED ADVENTURE which, when over-racing, was itself checked when crowded onto SPLENDID GUY by FIERY PATROL (N Callan) which initially got its head on the side and lay in across the heels of WIN IT before a short time later being taken in marginally by LOTUS LOVE (T H So) which shifted in when not properly clear. When NO TIES was checked, it shifted out, resulting in OPTIMIZATION STAR being checked when taken across the heels of PRINCE OF SUNSHINE. STREET CAT, which was following, was hampered in consequence. The Stewards were of the opinion that there were a number of circumstances which contributed to this incident and that no one rider was careless to the degree where it was appropriate to issue charges under the Rules. However, both N Callan and T H So were advised that they must make every endeavour to ensure their fellow riders have sufficient racing room in similar circumstances. After the 800 Metres, CITY DELIGHT was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 750 Metres, NO TIES was checked away from the heels of RED ADVENTURE. Throughout the race, LOTUS LOVE travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of GOOD TIMES ROLL, W C Marwing stated that, in his opinion, the performance could be attributed to the fact that it was not able to obtain cover in the early stages and over-raced due to the moderate tempo. He said when the horse was successful at its most recent start, it was able to obtain cover in a race which was run at a quicker tempo than that of today’s race. A veterinary inspection of GOOD TIMES ROLL immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. GOOD TIMES ROLL, ROBUST MOMENTUM and FIERY PATROL were sent for sampling.