03/04/2016  Shatin  Race 3

Shortly after the start, AMAZING KIDS got its head up when being steadied to obtain cover. Approaching the 100 Metres, DIVINE BOY lay out and raced tight against CHARLES THE GREAT. When questioned regarding his riding of DUNDONNELL in the early stages, O Doleuze stated that it was considered there was not a great deal of speed engaged in the race and having regard to the fact that RAD was ridden more quietly at its most recent start over 1200 Metres, he was instructed that if DUNDONNELL began well, he should attempt to take up a forward position. He was further advised that if the tempo of the race was not strong, it was acceptable for him to allow DUNDONNELL to lead. He said as the start was effected DUNDONNELL lifted its front feet off the ground and then was bumped by RAD which shifted out. He said he rode his mount along in the early stages to take up a forward position, however, RAD continued to maintain its position inside DUNDONNELL. He said making the turn near the 900 Metres he steadied DUNDONNELL as it was no longer available to him to lead given that RAD was maintaining its position in the lead and travelling strongly. O Doleuze stated that in retrospect he had erred in allowing DUNDONNELL to stride forward to race outside RAD given the manner in which the horse began, however, it was due to the tactics adopted on RAD at its most recent start which placed a doubt in his mind as to how that horse would be ridden. Trainer C Fownes confirmed that he had instructed Jockey Doleuze to take up a forward position and lead if the circumstances in the early stages were that the race was not being run at a good tempo. He said having regard to the manner in which DUNDONNELL began, he believed it would have been in the horse's best interests for it to take a trailing position behind RAD rather than contesting for the lead. Having regard to the circumstances of this matter including the sectional times in the early stages, O Doleuze was advised that the Stewards were concerned with the manner in which DUNDONNELL was ridden, particularly given that the horse did not begin well. He was further advised that his riding of DUNDONNELL in the early stages had come under notice and had fallen short of what is expected of a senior rider in Hong Kong. He was severely reprimanded and told that he must ride his mounts in such a manner so as to ensure that they are given every opportunity to finish off their race. Mr Fownes was advised that his evidence would be reported. LUCKY BUBBLES and AMAZING KIDS were sent for sampling.