19/11/2008  Happy Valley  Race 6

Whilst in the holding stalls, CONGRATULATION had its right hind plate refitted. CONGRATULATION was examined by the Veterinary Officer who said in his opinion it was suitable to race. On jumping, SUPER FIGHTER from a wide gate was taken back. At the 400 Metres, HAPPY MASTER was steadied away from the heels of SOUNDS FANTASTIC when held up and unable to improve. Shortly after straightening, CHINA WIN got its head on the side, shifted in and was steadied away from the heels of SOUNDS FANTASTIC which was carried slightly wider by ELFHELM. On straightening, BULLISH WIN got its head on the side and shifted in momentarily. For a considerable distance after the 200 Metres, CHATER SILK had difficulty obtaining clear running. For the majority of the Home Straight, NILOMETER was held up and unable to obtain clear running. Because of this, NILOMETER was not properly tested. For the major part of the race, CHINA WIN travelled wide and without cover. When questioned, M Du Plessis (WHATABOB) explained he had been instructed to ride the horse in a forward position with cover if possible. He said accordingly he allowed WHATABOB to go forward in the early stages and gradually crossed to the lead. He said after crossing to the fence at the 1200 Metres he then endeavoured to steady WHATABOB to allow CONGRATULATION to cross and provide him with cover. He said when he did this WHATABOB commenced to pull and proved very difficult for him to settle. He said CONGRATULATION crossed to the rail near the 1000 Metres and immediately commenced to steady the tempo. He said because of this WHATABOB which was continuing to prove difficult to settle raced close to CONGRATULATION’s heels and he therefore shifted his mount to a two wide position. He said when he did this CONGRATULATION quickened the tempo of the race slightly and WHATABOB then relaxed. CONGRATULATION was sent for an official veterinary inspection. After the race, CONGRATULATION was examined by the Veterinary Officer. He said an endoscopic examination showed a substantial amount of blood in the horse's trachea. Before being allowed to race again, CONGRATULATION will be subjected to an official veterinary examination. DORDENMA and MASTER GUNNER were sent for sampling.