16/09/2017  Shatin  Race 3

RHODE ASSASSIN began only fairly. From the outside barrier, BEST TANGO was shifted across behind runners in the early stages. Shortly after the start, HAPPY BEAUTY (Apprentice H T Mo), which was being ridden along in an attempt to obtain a forward position, raced tight between DRAGON BACHELOR and DOUBLE POINT which shifted in. After this, HAPPY BEAUTY continued to be hard ridden, however, failed to muster speed in the early stages and then travelled wide and without cover until after the 900 Metres at which time the horse was able to shift in to race outside the lead. After the race, Apprentice Mo reported that the horse weakened noticeably in the Straight after having to do a considerable amount of work to obtain a forward position as instructed. A veterinary inspection of HAPPY BEAUTY immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. FAITHFUL BOY was also ridden along in the early stages to take up a forward position, however, was slow to muster speed and travelled wide and without cover until passing the 1000 Metres. Making the first turn after the winning post on the first occasion, DIAMOND FRIENDS was momentarily awkwardly placed between AMRITSARIA and EQUITY DOCTRINE. After the 900 Metres, EQUITY DOCTRINE was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 250 Metres, BEST TANGO and RHODE ASSASSIN raced tight. Passing the 100 Metres, DIAMOND FRIENDS shifted in and bumped EQUITY DOCTRINE. B Prebble, the rider of AMRITSARIA, which was having its first start on the All Weather surface, stated that after being crossed by FAITHFUL BOY passing the 1000 Metres, AMRITSARIA became unbalanced in its action and he felt that the horse may have gone amiss. He said however that AMRITSARIA quickly recovered and therefore he continued to ride AMRITSARIA along, however, the horse, despite being ridden along, gave ground from this point onwards. He added, in his opinion, AMRITSARIA did not appreciate racing on the surface today at its first time of asking. A veterinary inspection of AMRITSARIA immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of AMRITSARIA, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, AMRITSARIA will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. C Y Ho, the rider of DRAGON BACHELOR, was reminded of his obligation in respect of the amount of whip to be used on horses which are not improving their position, particularly over the latter stages of the race. DIAMOND FRIENDS and EQUITY DOCTRINE were sent for sampling.