24/01/2009  Shatin  Race 7

SPECIAL DAYS was slow to begin. In the early stages, UNWRITTEN RULE proved difficult to settle and BEAUTY FOREVER was inclined to hang in. After the 800 Metres, SPECIAL DAYS was shifted out to travel three wide and without cover. At the 250 Metres, GREAT LAND'S STAR was struck over the nose by the whip of C Soumillon (BEAUTY FOREVER). For a considerable distance approaching the 200 Metres, SLEEP WELL had difficulty obtaining clear running, then after the 200 Metres was steadied and shifted to the outside of GREAT LAND'S STAR to go forward. When questioned regarding the poor performance of MEDICO, Z Purton said he had been instructed to ride the horse in a forward position. He said to carry out these instructions he had to niggle MEDICO along and his mount travelled only fairly. He said approaching the turn at the 800 Metres he shifted MEDICO away from the rail to ensure his mount would have clear running in the Home Straight. He said in the Straight he placed MEDICO under pressure, however, the horse did not respond and was most disappointing. He said in his opinion the performance of MEDICO may have been due to him being required to make some use of his mount which was carrying top weight to carry out his riding instructions in the early stages. Mr J Moore, the trainer of MEDICO, was not able to offer any explanation for the poor performance of the horse. He said the work of MEDICO leading into today's race had pleased the stable and because of this the horse was given a strong chance in today's race. He said he wished to have MEDICO ridden prominently as he felt if the horse was left with too much to do while carrying top weight, it would be to its disadvantage. MEDICO was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of MEDICO after the race did not show any significant findings. The performance of MEDICO was considered unacceptable. Before being allowed to race again, MEDICO will be required to perform to the satisfaction of the Stewards in an official barrier trial and be subjected to an official veterinary examination. SPECIAL DAYS and BEAUTY FOREVER were sent for sampling.