09/05/2015  Shatin  Race 5

Whilst in the saddling stalls, JACK’S GEM had its right front plate refitted. JACK’S GEM was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. As the start was effected, SENSIBLE CHOICE became very fractious, resulting in the horse losing a considerable amount of ground. Before being allowed to race again, SENSIBLE CHOICE will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial. BOLD STITCH shifted in at the start and bumped AMBITIOUS SPEEDY which in turn was taken in onto FAITHFUL BOY which became unbalanced and shifted in, bumping SECRET CODE which also became unbalanced. Shortly after the start, FISH N’ CHIPS was awkwardly placed close to the heels of THUNDER DASH which shifted in. TEN FLAMES lost its right hind plate shortly after the start. For some distance approaching and passing the 1000 Metres, SECRET CODE proved very difficult to settle when racing ungenerously. Making the first turn after the 900 Metres, THUNDER DASH got its head up when awkwardly placed behind TOP BONUS. Near the 650 Metres, YO-YO DA and BOLD STITCH raced tight due to YO-YO DA laying out. At the 400 Metres, THUNDER DASH was disappointed for running between TOP BONUS and FAITHFUL BOY. TEN FLAMES was held up for clear running in the early part of the Straight and near the 300 Metres was shifted to the outside of AMBITIOUS SPEEDY to obtain clear running. Near the 100 Metres, ELEGANT FRAMES was momentarily crowded for room between THUNDER DASH and FISH N’ CHIPS which shifted out marginally when awkwardly placed close to the heels of TOP BONUS. FISH N’ CHIPS was unable to obtain clear running at any stage in the Straight and consequently was not able to be tested. Throughout the race, FAITHFUL BOY and OWNERS’ PRIDE travelled wide and without cover. H W Lai pleaded guilty to being in breach of Stewards’ Instruction 22 in that well after passing the winning post he used his whip in an improper manner in that he struck AMBITIOUS SPEEDY with the whip in the vicinity of the horse’s neck/shoulder. In the circumstances, the Stewards believed the appropriate penalty was for H W Lai to be fined the sum of $10,000. THUNDER DASH, YO-YO DA, TOP BONUS and TEN FLAMES were sent for sampling.