09/09/2018  Shatin  Race 2

Shortly after the start, G van Niekerk (PACKING DRAGON) adjusted his right foot in the iron. Approaching the 200 Metres, HORSE OF FORTUNE shifted out and brushed the hindquarters of RATTAN. After the 100 Metres, PACKING DRAGON was momentarily eased away from the heels of RATTAN which shifted in. For the majority of the race, ROMANTIC TOUCH raced with its head on the side and lay out. When questioned regarding his riding in the early part of the Straight, G van Niekerk stated that his mount shifted out marginally rounding the Home Turn. He said when it did this, JOLLY BANNER improved its position quickly to be racing to the inside of PACKING DRAGON and outside the heels of ROMANTIC TOUCH on straightening. He said he was of the view that PACKING DRAGON did not shift a great deal of ground at this time, however, it was enough for JOLLY BANNER to be able to improve its position between ROMANTIC TOUCH and PACKING DRAGON. He added approaching the 300 Metres JOLLY BANNER and PACKING DRAGON then raced tight as JOLLY BANNER continued to improve into tight running between ROMANTIC TOUCH and his mount. G van Niekerk was advised that his explanation would be reported and told to ensure that he rides his mounts competitively at all times so as to leave no room for query. ROMANTIC TOUCH and RATTAN were sent for sampling.