09/10/2019  Happy Valley  Race 2

After beginning only fairly, DIONYSUS COLLIN took some time to muster speed. From a wide barrier, STRATHBARRA was steadied soon after the start and shifted across behind runners. Despite being ridden along in the early stages, STARLIT KNIGHT failed to muster speed and passing the winning post on the first occasion was left racing wide and without cover. Then after the 1200 Metres, STARLIT KNIGHT was allowed to improve gradually around the field to shift in and assume the lead prior to the 600 Metres. Approaching the winning post on the first occasion, GOLDEN TURBO and ZHAN JIANG ROCKS raced tight between SOLAR BILLION and NITRO EXPRESS (N Callan) which shifted in. N Callan was advised to ensure that he allows comfortable racing room for runners to his inside in similar circumstances. Passing the 800 Metres, ZHAN JIANG ROCKS was steadied away from the heels of SPEEDY WALLY which itself was steadied when awkwardly placed behind FLAME LILY. Making the turn after the 600 Metres, ZHAN JIANG ROCKS raced tight inside SPEEDY WALLY which got its head on the side and lay in. Approaching the 200 Metres, ZHAN JIANG ROCKS and WINNING CONTROLLER brushed. Following the race, N Callan stated that NITRO EXPRESS did not stretch out during the event and raced "flat”. A veterinary inspection of NITRO EXPRESS immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of NITRO EXPRESS, which finished tailed out, was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, NITRO EXPRESS will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in a barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. A veterinary inspection of GOD OF DRAGON immediately following the race did not show any significant findings, however, the horse was unable to be scoped due to being fractious. A veterinary inspection of FLYING TIGER HERO immediately following the race found that horse to have bled from both nostrils. FLAME LILY and SPEEDY WALLY were sent for sampling.