06/04/2016  Shatin  Race 2

SMART PLANET began only fairly. Shortly after the start, WINSOME SMILE was crowded for room between ALL IS WELL and PERCY JACKSON which was taken out by ISLAND FLYER. From wide barriers, SPICY SIAM and HAPPY FRIENDSHIP were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. Passing the winning post on the first occasion, HAPPY FRIENDSHIP got its head up when proving difficult to settle. In the middle stages, PERCY JACKSON proved difficult to settle and was awkwardly placed behind MIZZEN GREY. Passing the 700 Metres, SMART PLANET was awkwardly placed close to the heels of MIZZEN GREY. Passing the 500 Metres, WINSOME SMILE shifted out and raced tight against PERCY JACKSON. At the entrance to the Straight, COMMANDANT was shifted in across the heels of THIS IS GLADIATOR to obtain clear running. For the major part of the race, DRAGON ENERGY travelled wide and without cover. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of SMART PLANET, J Moreira stated that the horse did not appear entirely comfortable in its action throughout the race. He said due to the slow tempo, SMART PLANET was further forward than had been anticipated and when the pace of the race quickened near the 500 Metres, SMART PLANET was left flat-footed and then did not finish off the race. Mr A Lee, the trainer of SMART PLANET, stated that, in his opinion, the horse is best suited when ridden quietly and it would be his intention for the horse to be ridden in this way in future when circumstances permit. A veterinary inspection of SMART PLANET immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. A veterinary inspection of ISLAND FLYER immediately following the race did not show any significant findings, however, an endoscopic examination of that horse was unable to be properly performed due to it being fractious. SMART PLANET, MY CUP OVERFLOWS and COMMANDANT were sent for sampling.