16/03/2016  Happy Valley  Race 2

SHOWING CHARACTER began only fairly. SMART GAIN was crowded for room on jumping between FINE ROCK and CAREFREE LET GO which shifted out. CAREFREE LET GO then became unbalanced and shifted out further, resulting in SMART GAIN, FINE ROCK, PERPETUAL JOYANCE and METALLIC STAR all being badly hampered. From the outside barrier, MAJOR CONNECTION was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. Approaching the 750 Metres, SMART GAIN (N Callan) got its head up when racing very close to the heels of MANFUL STAR which became unbalanced at this time. In this incident, MANFUL STAR lost its left hind plate. A short distance later, SMART GAIN shifted in abruptly away from the heels of MANFUL STAR when racing tight inside PERPETUAL JOYANCE. This resulted in CAREFREE LET GO, which was improving its position, having to be steadied away from the heels of SMART GAIN. N Callan was advised that the Stewards accepted that there were a number of circumstances which contributed to this incident, however, in similar circumstances he must ensure that he makes every endeavour to prevent his mounts from shifting ground when not properly clear of other runners. Passing the 500 Metres, CAREFREE LET GO momentarily raced tight inside PERPETUAL JOYANCE which got its head on the side and lay in. Throughout the race, GLORY SUNSHINE travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of PERPETUAL JOYANCE, J Moreira stated that it had been intended for the horse to be ridden in a forward position as it was at its only other race start over the course and distance. He said after being crowded at the start PERPETUAL JOYANCE became unbalanced and then did not show the same early speed as it did last start. He said this resulted in PERPETUAL JOYANCE racing further back in the field than had been intended. He added after shifting in to race behind MANFUL STAR approaching the 600 Metres, PERPETUAL JOYANCE was reluctant to maintain its position behind that horse which required him to ride his mount along in an endeavour to maintain its position. He said PERPETUAL JOYANCE continued to be reluctant to fully stretch out until after straightening when the field opened up at which time the horse then finished off the race fairly. A veterinary inspection of PERPETUAL JOYANCE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. PERPETUAL JOYANCE, OCEAN ROAR and KIM GLORY were sent for sampling.