12/04/2015  Shatin  Race 11

As no other rider was available, the Stewards approved for Y T Cheng to be replaced by C K Tong on GOOD CHOICE in this race 3 lbs overweight. On arrival at the Start, it was noted that PIKACHU had lost its right front plate. This plate was refitted. PIKACHU was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. From a wide barrier, EAGLE POWER was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. TRAVEL BROTHER, ROMANTIC TOUCH and GOOD CHOICE were also shifted across behind runners in the early stages. At the 1400 Metres, BRILLIANT SHINE was momentarily crowded for room inside ANTICIPATION (A Suborics) which was then directed out by its rider to relieve the tightening. A Suborics was advised to exercise more care. After this, BRILLIANT SHINE proved very difficult to settle and got its head up on numerous occasions when awkwardly placed close to the heels of ANTICIPATION. Approaching the 1300 Metres, SICHUAN VIGOUR got its head up when proving difficult to settle and awkwardly placed behind CELESTIAL SMILE. After the 1000 Metres, PIKACHU commenced to travel keenly and got its head up when racing close to the heels of SICHUAN VIGOUR. Making the turn near the 900 Metres, SELKIRK STAR was momentarily crowded for room inside SHAMKIYR which was directed in by SICHUAN VIGOUR (W M Lai). W M Lai was advised to ensure that he leaves comfortable racing room for runners to his inside. Passing the 900 Metres, BRILLIANT SHINE momentarily raced tight between APOLLO’S CHOICE and CELESTIAL SMILE. SELKIRK STAR had some difficulty obtaining clear running in the early part of the Straight. For some distance between the 400 Metres and the 300 Metres, APOLLO’S CHOICE raced in restricted room when improving into tight running inside SICHUAN EXEC. SHAMKIYR had difficulty obtaining clear running passing the 400 Metres and in the Straight got its head on the side and lay out under pressure. BRILLIANT SHINE was unable to obtain clear running at any stage in the Straight and consequently was not able to be tested. After the race, K C Leung (PRINCIPAL) advised that he had been asked to ride the horse in a midfield position if possible, however, PRINCIPAL began very well and he consequently elected to allow the horse to roll forward due to the moderate early tempo. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of ROMANTIC TOUCH, O Doleuze stated that he was asked to ride the horse towards the rear of the field as it had previously performed well when ridden in this manner. He said the tempo of the early stages was sedate which did not suit ROMANTIC TOUCH. He said although the tempo quickened somewhat in the middle stages, ROMANTIC TOUCH was still well back in the field rounding the Home Turn and then did not quicken when placed under pressure. He added whilst ROMANTIC TOUCH was disappointing, he felt that the circumstances of the race were a significant factor in the horse’s performance. A veterinary inspection of ROMANTIC TOUCH immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. APOLLO’S CHOICE and CELESTIAL SMILE were sent for sampling.