25/02/2015  Happy Valley  Race 1

On arrival at the track, BERNARD’S CHOICE sustained mild abrasions to both hind cannons whilst being unloaded from the transporter. BERNARD’S CHOICE was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. ORIENTAL FANTASIA and VICTORY GENERAL bumped on jumping, resulting in both horses becoming unbalanced. COPY STAR began awkwardly. From wide barriers, WINNING EXPRESSO, MY SURPLUS and BERNARD’S CHOICE were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. Making the first turn after the 1100 Metres, DANEWIN WINNING got its head on the side and hung in. After being ridden along to obtain a forward position, VICTORY GENERAL proved difficult to settle after the 1000 Metres. After being left racing wide and without cover, SHANGHAI PIONEER was steadied prior to the 900 Metres to obtain a position with cover behind CARE FREE ELEGANCE which after the 700 Metres was also left racing wide and without cover. When being steadied, SHANGHAI PIONEER travelled keenly and got its head up for some distance. Near the 650 Metres, LYRIC ACE got its head up and proved difficult to settle when racing in the lead. Near the 550 Metres, BERNARD’S CHOICE was checked when momentarily crowded for room inside DIAMOND ANGEL (O Doleuze) which shifted in marginally. O Doleuze was advised to ensure that he leaves comfortable room for runners to his inside. Approaching the 400 Metres, DANEWIN WINNING, which had its head on the side and was laying in under pressure, blundered. Approaching the 100 Metres, FANTASTICLIFE was steadied and shifted to the outside of BERNARD’S CHOICE into clear running after being disappointed for a run between BERNARD’S CHOICE and VICTORY GENERAL which was giving ground. A veterinary inspection of VICTORY GENERAL immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. A veterinary inspection of DANEWIN WINNING immediately following the race including an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of mucopus in the horse’s trachea. LYRIC ACE and ORIENTAL FANTASIA were sent for sampling.