10/01/2015  Shatin  Race 5

After being loaded, SAMMY’S EMPIRE became fractious, reared and momentarily got its right front leg over into the adjoining stall. SAMMY’S EMPIRE was removed from the barriers and examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. Before being allowed to race again, SAMMY’S EMPIRE will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial. GOLD DRAGON was steadied shortly after the start when crowded for room between ATHENA BABY which shifted out and KING’S STEED which, after being brushed by UNIQUE HAPPIEST, then shifted in of its own accord. From the outside barrier, JACK’S GEM became unbalanced shortly after the start when bumped by SAMMY’S EMPIRE which shifted out. After this, JACK’S GEM was taken back. Also from wide barriers, BRILLIANT MONKEYS and MULTI-WIN GENERAL were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the 1000 Metres, STAG KNIGHT proved very difficult to settle and got its head up on a number of occasions when being checked away from the heels of ATHENA BABY. Near the 900 Metres, STAG KNIGHT shifted out and bumped MARK TWO. DASHING FORTUNE travelled wide and without cover until passing the 600 Metres. Approaching the 500 Metres, MARK TWO became unbalanced when racing in restricted room between JACK’S GEM and KING’S STEED which was awkwardly placed close to the heels of KING OF REASON. At the entrance to the Straight, KING OF REASON and GOLD DRAGON bumped. After the race, it was noted that there was evidence of dried blood over JACK’S GEM’s right ear. A veterinary inspection of STAG KNIGHT immediately following the race revealed that the horse was displaying an irregular heart rhythm. Before being allowed to race again, STAG KNIGHT will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SOUL ACHIEVER and UNIQUE HAPPIEST were sent for sampling.