16/02/2014  Shatin  Race 7

As the start was effected, LUCKY NINE lifted its front feet off the ground and lost ground. From the outside barrier, FREDERICK ENGELS was taken across behind runners in the early stages. Approaching the 700 Metres, STERLING CITY commenced to prove difficult to settle and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of GO BABY GO. STRAIGHT GOLD had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight and for some distance after the 200 Metres was awkwardly placed close to the heels of CHARLES THE GREAT when unable to obtain clear running from behind that horse. STERLING CITY was unable to obtain clear running until after the 200 Metres. Throughout the race, BEST ELEVEN travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, M Chadwick stated that after beginning awkwardly at its most recent start and racing further back in the field than had been intended, CERISE CHERY was able to finish off the race well. He said due to the manner in which CERISE CHERRY finished off at its last start and the fact that it had been successful four starts ago when ridden by Z Purton from towards the rear of the field, it was felt that CERISE CHERRY’s best opportunity in today’s race would be to have it ridden more quietly than had been the case of late in the hope that it would be able to close off strongly. He said in accordance with his instructions he shifted CERISE CHERRY across behind runners in the early stages after it began well. He added however that CERISE CHERRY lay out making the turns and then was disappointing in its failure to respond to his riding in the Straight. STERLING CITY, LUCKY NINE and CHARLES THE GREAT were sent for sampling.