01/07/2016  Shatin  Race 9

LORD SINCLAIR was slow to begin. WHO ELSE BUT YOU began awkwardly and lost ground. STAR SUPERIOR was steadied in the early stages and shifted across behind runners. For a considerable distance in the early stages, BEAR RAPPER was ridden along to obtain a forward position, however, throughout the race travelled wide and without cover and in the Straight gave ground. A veterinary inspection of BEAR RAPPER immediately following the race found the horse to be lame in its left front leg. Before being allowed to race again, BEAR RAPPER will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. For the majority of the race, ELITE SPIRIT travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, Apprentice H N Wong stated that he had been asked to ride STARTLING POWER in a forward position and lead if possible. He said however as it was felt that BORNTOACHIEVE, which was drawn inside STARTLING POWER, would also be ridden to lead and if he was not able to lead, he should sit outside and behind that horse and not to engage in a speed battle. He said in accordance with his instructions, he rode STARTLING POWER vigorously in the early stage, however, BORNTOACHIEVE was able to maintain its position to the inside of STARTLING POWER. He said when it became apparent to him that he would not be able to cross that horse approaching the 1000 Metres, he commenced to steady STARTLING POWER in order to sit about a neck behind BORNTOACHIEVE. He added STARTLING POWER initially settled well, however, when BRIGHT STRIKE improved its position outside STARTLING POWER near the 700 Metres, STARTLING POWER then commenced to over-race and would not settle and was inclined to get its head up and shift ground which resulted in STARTLING POWER shifting in and bumping BORNTOACHIEVE. A veterinary inspection of EXTREMELY FUN immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. TRAVEL NUMBER ONE lost its left front plate after the race. DEJA VU and FULL TALENT were sent for sampling.