04/05/2014  Shatin  Race 2

ENJOY THE GAME was crowded for room at the start between JOLLY GOOD and MIZZEN GREY which shifted in. From the outside barriers, BURGUNDY MAC and LUCKY CHOICE were taken across behind runners in the early stages. After the 1100 Metres, NICKU was left racing without cover. Passing the 200 Metres, NICKU was momentarily steadied away from the heels of BURGUNDY MAC which shifted in. The performances of ENJOY THE GAME and SUISSE D'OR, which finished tailed out, were considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, ENJOY THE GAME and SUISSE D'OR will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of CHAMPION RANGER, U Rispoli stated that the horse came off the bridle in the early stages when crossed by other runners. He said he had to place the horse under considerable pressure as far out as 1200 Metres to maintain its position. He said despite being vigorously ridden prior to the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight, CHAMPION RANGER did not respond and weakened badly in the Straight. He added he was not able to offer any excuses for the horse's performance as its action and breathing appeared normal and the horse trotted back to the unplaced runners' area sound. A veterinary inspection of CHAMPION RANGER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of CHAMPION RANGER, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, CHAMPION RANGER will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. NAMJONG TURBO, SURROUNDED and BURGUNDY MAC were sent for sampling. <5/5/2014 Additional Veterinary Report>The Clinical Veterinary Surgeon reported that NICKU was lame in its right front leg on the morning after racing. Before being allowed to race again, NICKU will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.