20/01/2008  Shatin  Race 5

MASTER POWER was slow to begin. Near the 1000 Metres, DOWN THE WICKET, which was proving difficult to settle, got its head up when being steadied away from the heels of LUCKY WINNER. Making the turn at the 800 Metres, LUCKY WINNER was steadied when crowded for room inside COUNTRY MUSIC which at this time was carried in by ULTRA FANTASY which in turn was carried in by LUCKY HERO (Z Purton) which shifted in when not properly clear. Z Purton was severely reprimanded and told to exercise greater care. DOWN THE WICKET, which was following, was steadied in consequence. For some distance after this, LUCKY WINNER continued to race ungenerously and was inclined to hang out. At the 700 Metres, MAVERICK STAR became unbalanced when crowded for room between DEFERENTIAL and SUGAR ON TOP. After the 200 Metres, MASTER POWER, which was being shifted out to find clear running, was steadied away from the heels of MAVERICK STAR, then at the 100 Metres was again steadied when awkwardly placed between MAVERICK STAR and ELEGANT WIN. At the 100 Metres DEFERENTIAL and BULB KING were checked when crowded for room between COUNTRY MUSIC (Apprentice K L Chui) and MAVERICK STAR (F Coetzee), both of which shifted ground. In the circumstances, Apprentice Chui was severely reprimanded and told to exercise greater care. F Coetzee was also advised to ensure he makes every effort to prevent his mounts shifting ground in similar circumstances. Throughout the race, SUGAR ON TOP travelled wide and without cover. DEFERENTIAL and MASTER POWER were sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of DEFERENTIAL and MASTER POWER after the race did not show any significant findings. SANZIRO and LUCKY HERO were sent for sampling.