02/11/2014  Shatin  Race 7

Just prior to the start being effected, BULLISH SMART became fractious and then as the gates were released bounded in the air and consequently was slow to begin. From the outside barrier, GOLDLAND DANCER was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the 1100 Metres, MIGHTY K was left racing wide and without cover. At the entrance to the Straight, BULLISH SMART was awkwardly placed close to the heels of ETON BLITZ. BULLISH SMART was then held up for clear running from after the 300 Metres until near the 200 Metres. GOOD GOOD VIEW was unable to obtain clear running from passing the 400 Metres until near the 250 Metres at which point the horse was shifted out and bumped GOLDLAND DANCER. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of AMBER DRAGON, M Demuro stated that he had not been under any specific instructions on where to position the horse from its wide barrier. He said as the start was effected AMBER DRAGON began only fairly and then was bumped by GOOD GOOD VIEW which shifted out. He said therefore he elected to shift AMBER DRAGON across behind runners in the early stages and attempt to obtain inside runs if possible. He said AMBER DRAGON did not travel well during the race and was never on the bridle. He said he placed the horse under heavy pressure rounding the Home Turn and in the early part of the Straight when racing close to the rail, however, it did not respond to his riding. He added therefore after the 300 Metres he directed his mount out wider in the Straight to see if it may close off the race more strongly, however, AMBER DRAGON did not pick up and was disappointing in the manner in which it failed to finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of AMBER DRAGON immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. GOOD GOOD VIEW, SELKIRK STAR and ETON BLITZ were sent for sampling.