An enquiry from a punter regarding the Hong Kong racing on Wednesday 26 October has led to Phumelela GM: Sports Betting Mervin Gamble issuing this statement on behalf of the HKJC.
Statement on void race – Race 4 – Shum Wan Handicap
The Shum Wan Handicap, Race 4 at Happy Valley Racecourse tonight (26 October), was voided by the Racing Stewards, acting on the basis that the individual gates did not open in unison. Barriers 3, 6, 10 and 12 opened first, followed by barriers 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 and finally barriers 1 and 8.
It has been established that tracks staff placed two rakes on the side of the barrier. When the starter initiated the start, one of the rakes became jammed in the barrier opening mechanism, causing a non-simultaneous opening of the barriers.
The pre-race protocol for the barrier loading and starting process was otherwise normal. The mechanics of the barriers were in no way defective.
The Stewards, exercising rule 12 (39), declared the race void and all bets, totaling $126,206,410 were refunded.
The barrier used in race four was removed for the remainder of the race meeting, pending further inspection. The Club has commenced a full inquiry into the incident.OID
