27/12/2016  Shatin  Race 6

BLAZING PASS shifted out on jumping and bumped the hindquarters of ASHKIYR. From a wide barrier, GREAT JOY was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. After the 1700 Metres, GREAT JOY got its head up when being steadied to obtain cover. In the early stages, TERRIFIC MASTER was left racing wide and without cover and after the 1200 Metres was allowed to improve its position to race outside the lead at the 1000 Metres. Approaching the 1100 Metres, KING BOUNTIFUL got its head up when awkwardly placed close to the heels of ASHKIYR. Passing the 900 Metres, FLYING MACHINE was left racing wide and without cover. Passing the 350 Metres, as ASHKIYR commenced to be directed to the outside of the heels of MIDNITE PROMISE to obtain clear running, ASHKIYR became awkwardly placed behind that horse which also shifted in marginally. When questioned, M Chadwick stated that he had been given an option of leading on BO DUKE if nothing else was intent on going forward, however, if another runner was being ridden along to obtain the lead, it was acceptable for him to take a trailing position, particularly given the wind today had appeared to be making it difficult for leaders to finish off their races. He said in accordance with his instructions he rode his mount along in the early stages to take up a forward position and was content to lead the race on the rail, however, after the 1600 Metres HOLMES LEGEND improved from the outside barrier and as it appeared as though that horse was going to continue to challenge for the lead, he elected to take a trailing position behind that horse. He said for a short distance approaching the 1100 Metres BO DUKE commenced to travel keenly and was awkwardly placed close to the heels of HOLMES LEGEND, however, after that, the horse relaxed well. He said however that after being placed under pressure rounding the Home Turn BO DUKE then did not finish off the race and was disappointing. A veterinary inspection of BO DUKE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of BO DUKE, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, BO DUKE 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 FLYING MACHINE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. FANCY MUSIC and GREAT JOY were sent for sampling.