13/02/2019  Happy Valley  Race 5

CHEERFUL BOY shifted out at the start and bumped VIGOR FAME (M F Poon) on two occasions. After this, VIGOR FAME was ridden along to obtain a forward position, however, failed to muster speed and near the 1600 Metres was shifted across behind runners to obtain cover in about a midfield position. After the race, M F Poon stated that this resulted in VIGOR FAME having to race further back in the field than had been intended. From the outside barriers, SUPER GIANT and YOU HAVE MY WORD were steadied in the early stages and shifted across behind runners. Near the 750 Metres, NITRO EXPRESS was taken wider by HAPPY DRAGON which shifted out away from the rail. After the 700 Metres, IMPERIAL GALLANTRY was left racing wide and without cover. VIGOR FAME was awkwardly placed behind NITRO EXPRESS and IMPERIAL GALLANTRY rounding the Home Turn when being shifted to the outside of those horses to obtain clear running. Passing the 300 Metres, IMPERIAL GALLANTRY shifted in and bumped NITRO EXPRESS. Also passing the 300 Metres, LUCKY GIRL and CHEERFUL BOY bumped and became unbalanced as a result of both horses shifting ground. After the 300 Metres, YOU HAVE MY WORD was directed back to the inside of LUCKY GIRL and CHEERFUL BOY to obtain clear running. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of J Moreira (PING HAI TREASURE), 6th placegetter, over the concluding stages did not affect the horse’s finishing position, he was nonetheless reminded of his obligation to ride his mounts out at least hands and heels to the end of the race where circumstances permit. A veterinary inspection of CHEERFUL STAR immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. HAPPY DRAGON and BRAVE LEGEND were sent for sampling.