01/07/2020  Shatin  Race 8

RIGHTEOUS DOCTRINE was slow to begin and on jumping was bumped by SAVVY NINE which was shifted across behind runners to obtain cover. COLUMBUS COUNTY was crowded for room on jumping between CHAMPION SUPREME and HIGH REV, both of which shifted ground. GLORIOUS ARTIST began only fairly and after the 1500 Metres was left racing wide and without cover. Passing the 1100 Metres, RIGHTEOUS DOCTRINE got its head up when awkwardly placed behind COLUMBUS COUNTY. HIGH REV lay in under pressure in the Straight. Whilst the Stewards were satisfied that the riding of V Borges (CHAMPION SUPREME), 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 all the way to the end of the race where circumstances permit. After the race, M F Poon (HELLO DADDY) reported that he allowed BUTTERFIELD to cross HELLO DADDY after the 1300 Metres and then immediately shifted to the outside of that horse. He said he had intended to maintain his position outside and behind BUTTERFIELD, however, when GLORIOUS ARTIST improved its position outside HELLO DADDY after the 1100 Metres, HELLO DADDY commenced to travel keenly. He said approaching the 1000 Metres he took another hold of HELLO DADDY in an attempt to have it settle and remain racing outside BUTTERFIELD, however, HELLO DADDY would not relax and therefore he allowed his mount some rein to improve its position into the lead passing the 800 Metres. Also after the race, A Hamelin was not able to provide any excuses for the disappointing performance of NICCONI EXPRESS. He said the horse travelled satisfactorily at the rear of the field, however, after being asked to quicken passing the 500 Metres did not respond to his riding and then failed to finish off the race. A veterinary inspection of NICCONI EXPRESS immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. A veterinary inspection of RIGHT CHOICE immediately following the race did not show any significant findings. COLUMBUS COUNTY and BUTTERFIELD were sent for sampling.