05/07/2015  Shatin  Race 9

GRACE HEART shifted out at the start and bumped CALIFORNIA BOUNTY. Shortly after the start, GRACE HEART and CALIFORNIA BOUNTY raced in restricted room between ELITE SPIRIT and WINFULL PATROL which got its head on the side and shifted out. WINNING TIME began only fairly and shortly after the start lost ground when crowded for room between VICTORY HEART and HO LEE HORSE, both of which shifted ground. E-SUPER lost its right front plate on jumping. LUCKY GIRL began only fairly. Passing the 800 Metres, DA VINCI lost ground when crowded for room between SKY MAN which shifted out marginally away from CALIFORNIA BOUNTY and SIGHT BELIEVER which shifted in away from CHATER ROCK which also shifted in marginally. As there was no carelessness exhibited in this incident, no further action was taken. Passing the 700 Metres, SIGHT BELIEVER raced tight between CALIFORNIA BOUNTY and CHATER ROCK. After the 400 Metres, WINFULL PATROL was shifted to the inside of EXCEL ONESELF after being disappointed for running outside that horse and inside GRACE HEART. Also after the 400 Metres, LUCKY GIRL hung in and proved very difficult to ride. The racing manners of LUCKY GIRL were considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, LUCKY GIRL will be required to perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial. When questioned, A Suborics stated that due to having drawn barrier 4 and because of the expected fast pace in the race from a number of horses which were drawn to his outside, he had been asked to shift WINFULL PATROL across in the early stages and obtain cover. He said it was felt that it was more advantageous for the horse to be ridden this way and possibly find the line rather than having to be used up in the early stages to overcome the awkward draw and not being able to finish off the race. He said WINFULL PATROL responded to being ridden in this manner and finished off the race strongly. A veterinary inspection of CALIFORNIA BOUNTY, SIGHT BELIEVER and SKY MAN immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. CHATER ROCK and WINFULL PATROL were sent for sampling. <6/7/2015 Additional Veterinary Report>CALIFORNIA BOUNTY, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said at that time there were no significant findings. CALIFORNIA BOUNTY was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer A S Cruz this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its left hind leg. Before being allowed to race again, CALIFORNIA BOUNTY will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.