24/05/2017  Happy Valley  Race 6

THE SYLPH and ACCLAIMED LIGHT were steadied in the early stages and shifted across behind runners to obtain cover. Approaching the winning post on the first occasion, UNICORN was crowded for room between TEN FLAMES and LITTERATEUR (Z Purton) which shifted in marginally when travelling keenly. Z Purton was advised that whilst the Stewards acknowledged that he had made an attempt to remain racing in a three wide position at this time and that he had gone for several holds on the horse in an endeavour to have it race more generously, nonetheless he was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he makes every endeavour to provide his fellow riders with comfortable racing room. After the 1200 Metres, A BEAUTIFUL commenced to travel keenly when being steadied in the lead. Passing the 850 Metres, LITTLE ISLAND was taken wider by UNICORN which shifted out to improve. Making the turn after the 600 Metres, GIANT TURTLE momentarily raced tight between A BEAUTIFUL and ENERGETIC CLASS which got its head on the side and shifted in marginally. Rounding the Home Turn, THUNDER STOMP was awkwardly placed behind A BEAUTIFUL. Near the 75 Metres, the whip of J Moreira (THE SYLPH) was knocked from his grasp by the whip of N Callan (TEN FLAMES). Passing the 50 Metres, THE SYLPH raced tight inside ACCLAIMED LIGHT which shifted in marginally. When questioned, Apprentice H N Wong (ENERGETIC CLASS) stated that in the early and middle stages he was left racing in a three wide position without cover due to the circumstances of the race. He said although the race was run at a good tempo in the early and middle stages, he felt that the leader A BEAUTIFUL was steadying the pace of the race in the lead after the 900 Metres and he felt that this presented ENERGETIC CLASS with the opportunity to improve its position to race outside that horse and obtain a position closer to the rail. Apprentice Wong was advised that, in the opinion of the Stewards, he had erred at this time by forcing ENERGETIC CLASS into a more forward position given the tempo of the race. He was further advised to show judgement when attempting similar mid-race manoeuvres in the future. LITTERATEUR and UNICORN were sent for sampling.