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HAPPY HOURS (Arshad Alam) could not get a clear run between the 800 Metres and 700 Metres due to a closely packed field.

Jockey T S Jodha, the rider of REFORMER, reported that he accidentally dropped his whip, passing the 300 Metres.

Jockey V R Jagdeesh, the rider of SHINING BAY, reported that his mount was hanging 'out' under pressure.

Jockey S John, the rider of CROZIET, was questioned in the presence of Trainer Mr. P Prasanna Kumar as to the handling of his mount with particular reference to the incident at the start, as also, as to the use of whip on his mount after entering the straight; The Jockey stated that (a) soon after the start, his mount threw its head up and he got slightly unbalanced; (b) he had to gather his mount and in the process, he lost his position; (c) thereafter, when he wanted to make a move, he could not get a clear run, and, therefore, he had to only gradually improve; (d) to avoid any further traffic problem, after entering the straight, he shifted 'out'; and (e) as his mount responded well without the whip, he just sparingly used his whip; The Trainer, while being questioned, corroborated the statement of the rider and added that the luck of the Race was not in his favour and as such, he could not take exception to the riding of Jockey S John. While noting their explanations, Jockey S John was informed that he was being given the benefit of a grave doubt at the instant and was cautioned as to his future riding.

Routine Sample was taken for analysis from the winner, b g SHINING BAY.