The Stewards were earlier advised by Dr P Curl, Executive Manager, Veterinary Regulation that he had a discussion with Mr C Fownes, the trainer of MILITARY ATTACK regarding that horse’s condition prior to the horse undertaking its routine pre-race veterinary examination this morning. MILITARY ATTACK is a declared starter in The Centenary Vase to be conducted at the Sha Tin racemeeting on Saturday, 7 February 2015. Accordingly, the Stewards spoke to Mr Fownes regarding this matter.
Mr Fownes stated that MILITARY ATTACK had a reduced appetite over the last few days and had lost body weight, which was of concern to him. Accordingly he had ordered blood samples to be taken from MILITARY ATTACK this morning, however, these samples were found to be within normal limits. Mr Fownes stated that whilst he was not able to identify any specific illness, nonetheless he was not completely satisfied with MILITARY ATTACK’S appearance and demeanour.
As there were no standby declared starters for this race, it was decided that MILITARY ATTACK would remain in the field and the horse’s condition would continue to be monitored.
However, Mr Fownes has informed the Stewards that MILITARY ATTACK was weighed this afternoon and its weight loss continues to be a concern. Accordingly, MILITARY ATTACK has been withdrawn from the aforementioned race by order of the Stewards acting on veterinary advice (inappetence).
