26/03/2014  Shatin  Race 4

Whilst in the saddling stalls, DANESOUTH had its right fore plate refitted. GLAMOROUS RYDER and HOLY MAC bumped at the start. CROATIA and VERDANE bumped shortly after the start. Approaching and passing the 1400 Metres, GOLDLAND DANCER got its head up and proved very difficult to settle when being steadied. CROATIA, which was following GOLDLAND DANCER, also got its head up when proving difficult to settle and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of GOLDLAND DANCER. Passing the 1400 Metres, GLAMOROUS RYDER was awkwardly placed close to the heels of XILAI XIANZI which was awkwardly placed inside the heels of WINNER’S DELIGHT. Passing the 1200 Metres, GOLDLAND DANCER again got its head up when being steadied away from the heels of EL GRANDE. PACKING MOTOR broke down passing the 800 Metres and was retired out of the race. CROATIA, which was following PACKING MOTOR, was checked away from the heels of that horse in consequence and EVERSPRING was hampered and taken wider. Rounding the Home Turn, GOLDLAND DANCER raced tight between EL GRANDE and WINNER’S DELIGHT. At the entrance to the Straight, GOOD THINKER, which was giving ground, was checked when crowded for room between EL GRANDE and COOL BEAN (B Prebble) which, after shifting out into tight running between GOOD THINKER and DANESOUTH, was then taken wider by DANESOUTH which got its head on the side and shifted out. B Prebble was advised that whilst there were some circumstances to this incident, nonetheless he must exercise care when attempting runs where there is doubtful room. Near the 300 Metres, COOL BEAN and EL GRANDE, which was commencing to give ground, were steadied when momentarily crowded for room between DANESOUTH and GOLDLAND DANCER which shifted in. Y T Cheng, the rider of the 5th placed, DANESOUTH, was reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out all the way to the end of the race where circumstances permit. The performances of EVERSPRING and GOOD THINKER, which finished tailed out, were considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, EVERSPRING and GOOD THINKER will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. After the race, N Callan (GOLDLAND DANCER) reported that his saddle shifted back slightly on jumping away, however, this did not present any significant disadvantage until the entrance to the Straight at which time the saddle shifted back noticeably, placing him at a disadvantage. A veterinary inspection of EL GRANDE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. WINNER’S DELIGHT and VERDANE were sent for sampling.