12/11/2014  Happy Valley  Race 7

On arrival at the track, it was noted that WINNING TALENT had sustained a minor injury to the left upper incisor tooth. WINNING TALENT was examined by the Veterinary Officer and passed suitable to race. On arrival at the Start, it was noted that NAMJONG BLOSSOMS had lost its right front plate. This plate was refitted. NAMJONG BLOSSOMS was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. WINNING TALENT and WONDER CHOICE were slow to begin. SIGHT BELIEVER began awkwardly. CHOICE EXCHEQUER was checked when crowded for room on jumping between FUN TAPESTRY and GLORY SUNSHINE, both of which shifted ground. Shortly after the start, FUN ‘N’ GAMES shifted in and bumped SEASONS STAR. After improving inside the heels of FUN ‘N’ GAMES (N Callan) after the 800 Metres, SIGHT BELIEVER was hampered and shifted in away from that horse which shifted in before being corrected by its rider. In the circumstances, N Callan was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure that he is sufficiently clear when shifting ground in similar circumstances. Passing the 300 Metres, CHARITY JOY was awkwardly placed close to the heels of YOU READ MY MIND after being disappointed for running between that horse and FUN ‘N’ GAMES which shifted in. Then passing the 250 Metres, CHARITY JOY and FUN ‘N’ GAMES raced tight as CHARITY JOY shifted out into clear running. After the race, D Whyte (CHARITY JOY) reported that his saddle shifted back in the early stages. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of ADEPTO, J Moreira stated that the horse became stirred up behind the barriers and commenced to sweat up. He said, from its inside draw, ADEPTO was able to obtain a good position in about midfield behind the eventual winner CHARITY JOY. He said however that making the turn after the 600 Metres ADEPTO got its head on the side, lay out and lost its action. He added the horse continued to lay out and rounding the Home Turn came under extreme pressure. He said despite being ridden out in the early part of the Straight, ADEPTO never fully regained its balance and consequently weakened out of the race. He said, in his opinion, the performance of ADEPTO could be attributed to the horse having its first start in Hong Kong and having not had experience at Happy Valley. A veterinary inspection of ADEPTO immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of ADEPTO, a favourite for tonight’s race, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, ADEPTO will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of CHOICE EXCHEQUER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. ADEPTO, CHARITY JOY and NAMJONG BLOSSOMS were sent for sampling.