The Hong Kong Jockey Club yesterday produced evidence to reject trainer Ivan Allan's contention that a number of obstacles were placed in the way of eminent American veterinary surgeon Dr Robert Lewis obtaining a work permit for his first visit to the SAR.
Allan had claimed in the Sunday Morning Post that the first time Lewis came to Hong Kong 'he had to go through so many blocks and checks he was on the verge of giving up and going home before I persuaded him to stay.' However, in a letter to the Jockey Club's senior veterinary surgeon, Dr Keith Watkins, dated February 22, 2000, Dr Lewis in fact held himself responsible for the difficulties he had encountered over the permit.
He wrote: 'I feel I must apologise for the confusion surrounding the application for a permit. I was totally unfamiliar with the process and obviously only partially informed by the parties who originally contacted me about coming there. I elected somewhat foolishly to make the trip in spite of not having completed the permit process, in hopes that it could be dealt with in person. So I appreciate your expediency in handling this matter.'
Dr Lewis added that he 'came away impressed with the thorough, conscientious approach your group takes towards providing healthcare for the many horses under your supervision. Your hospital appears to be well run and the staff seemed excellent.'
