13/04/2016  Happy Valley  Race 2

On arrival at the Start, it was noted that CRIMSON GLORY was coughing continually. Acting on advice from the Veterinary Officer that CRIMSON GLORY was not suitable to race, it was withdrawn by order of the Stewards. A subsequent endoscopic examination of CRIMSON GLORY found that horse to have a substantial amount of blood and mucus in its trachea. Before being allowed to race again, CRIMSON GLORY will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. CONFUCIUS SPIRIT began awkwardly and was bumped on jumping by BORN DRAGON which shifted out. From the outside barriers, SMART GAIN, EXCELLENCE and SHOWING CHARACTER were all shifted across behind runners in the early stages. When being steadied to obtain cover approaching the 1100 Metres, BORN DRAGON got its head up and proved difficult to settle and then making the turn near the 1000 Metres got its head on the side and lay out. BORN DRAGON then continued to lay out for the remainder of the race and consequently travelled wide and without cover throughout. Near the 850 Metres, EXCELLENCE lost ground when reluctant to maintain its position after momentarily racing in restricted room inside SHOWING CHARACTER which got its head on the side and shifted in away from SMART GAIN. After the 500 Metres, SMART GAIN got its head on the side and lay out under pressure. After the 100 Metres, EXCELLENCE shifted in abruptly, resulting in its rider having to stop riding and straighten. The performance of SMART GAIN, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, SMART GAIN will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of BORN DRAGON immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. EXTREMELY FUN and WAH MAY BABY were sent for sampling.