27/09/2014  Shatin  Race 5

ABLE WARRIOR began awkwardly. From the outside barrier, ENCHANTING DIAMOND was taken across behind runners in the early stages. Despite being vigorously ridden along in the early stages, PENNY LANE failed to muster speed and consequently raced back in the field. After being ridden along in the early stages, MARK TWO, when left racing wide, was steadied and shifted across behind runners after the 1300 Metres. Approaching the 1200 Metres, ABLE WARRIOR was steadied away from the heels of OWNERS’ PRIDE. Near the 900 Metres, GENUINE CHAMPION was awkwardly placed close to the heels of RECORD AGAIN. Passing the 900 Metres, OWNERS’ PRIDE shifted out and made contact with the hindquarters of YOUNG TALENT which became unbalanced and shifted in, resulting in OWNERS’ PRIDE being hampered. GRAND CHAMPION, which was following, was hampered in consequence. Approaching the 300 Metres, FOREVER FUN, which was commencing to give ground, was steadied away from the heels of ABLE WARRIOR which shifted out after being bumped by GRAND CHAMPION. Near the 200 Metres, ABLE WARRIOR was checked when crowded for room between MARK TWO which shifted in under pressure and YOUNG TALENT (N Callan) which shifted out. As the Stewards were satisfied that N Callan had attempted to correct YOUNG TALENT within a reasonable amount of time of the horse shifting ground, they decided in the circumstances not to proceed to issue a charge of careless riding. Nonetheless N Callan was severely reprimanded and advised that he must react as quickly as possible when horses shift ground in order to prevent causing interference to other runners. OWNERS’ PRIDE was unable to obtain clear running until after the 200 Metres. BLACK STAR shifted ground on a number of occasions over the final 100 Metres. Throughout the race, FOREVER FUN travelled wide and without cover. A veterinary inspection of RECORD AGAIN immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. OWNERS’ PRIDE, GRAND CHAMPION and MARK TWO were sent for sampling.