24/05/2017  Happy Valley  Race 4

HAPPY ROCKY was crowded for room on jumping between CONTRIBUTION and GO GO WIN, both of which shifted ground. GOOD CHOICE began only fairly. From the outside barriers, MUTUAL JOY and DESTIN were steadied in the early stages and shifted cross behind runners. Passing the 1100 Metres, IMPERIAL SEAL was checked away from the heels of CONTRIBUTION which was steadied away from the heels of RAGING BULL. Approaching the 800 Metres, IMPERIAL SEAL shifted out when awkwardly placed close to the heels of CONTRIBUTION, resulting in IMPERIAL SEAL being left racing without cover. IMPERIAL SEAL (N Callan) was then ridden along to improve its position and making the turn after the 600 Metres shifted in and bumped RAGING BULL. N Callan was advised to ensure that he rides his mounts in such a manner so as not to make unnecessary contact with other runners. In the Straight, CONTRIBUTION lay in under pressure and proved difficult to ride. The Stewards questioned Mr A S Cruz, the trainer of CONTRIBUTION, regarding the tactics adopted on that horse. Mr Cruz stated that, as was well documented, the horse at its last start, when ridden aggressively to obtain the lead, had over-raced. He said he anticipated that tonight’s race would be run at a good tempo and therefore felt that the opportunity existed for CONTRIBUTION to obtain a position behind the speed which would allow the horse to settle and finish off the race strongly. He said however that the pace was not as strong as he anticipated and as such CONTRIBUTION was not able to quicken with the field when the tempo increased after the 600 Metres. A veterinary inspection of IMPERIAL SEAL immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. CONTRIBUTION, POLYMER LUCK and GO GO WIN were sent for sampling. <25/5/2017 Additional Veterinary Report>IMPERIAL SEAL, which performed poorly, was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said at that time there were no significant findings. IMPERIAL SEAL was again examined by the Veterinary Officer at the stables of Trainer C Fownes this morning. He said at this time he noted the horse to be lame in its left front leg. Before being allowed to race again, IMPERIAL SEAL will be subjected to an official veterinary examination.