08/03/2020  Shatin  Race 3

YES WE CAN began only fairly. After being brushed by KING’S RACE on jumping, CENTENARY IBIS shifted out away from that horse and shortly after the start lost ground after bumping the hindquarters of KA FORTUNE which was taken in by VITAL SPRING which was checked when crowded for room inside READY CONQUEROR which, after brushing BREEDERS’ SKY on jumping, then shifted in abruptly despite the efforts of its rider. This resulted in both CENTENARY IBIS and VITAL SPRING losing ground and KA FORTUNE becoming badly unbalanced. From wide barriers, OLD HAVANA, DRAGON PRIDE and CHARGE ON were shifted across behind runners in the early stages. When being steadied after the 1200 Metres to obtain cover, READY CONQUEROR travelled keenly and got its head up on a number of occasions. After the 900 Metres, MY WINNER was left racing wide and without cover. Near the 350 Metres, CIRCUIT HASSLER was awkwardly placed close to the heels of KING’S RACE. The Stewards issued a charge of careless riding against B Shinn, the rider of CIRCUIT HASSLER, the particulars being that he permitted his mount to shift out approaching the 100 Metres when not clear of BREEDERS’ SKY which was checked and lost the running to which it was rightfully entitled. After hearing further submissions in respect of this incident from Jockey Shinn, who pleaded not guilty to the offence, the Stewards decided that the charge issued against him should not be sustained as they were satisfied that there was a sufficient contribution from YES WE CAN shifting in to the outside of BREEDERS’ SKY which necessitated Jockey Shinn being afforded the benefit of the doubt. Accordingly, he was found not guilty of the charge, however, he was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure that he makes every endeavour to prevent his mounts from shifting ground in similar circumstances. CIRCUIT HASSLER, CHARGE ON and INCANTO PREPARED were sent for sampling.