Irish 1,000 Guineas on agenda for Star after Gowran win

The Henry de Bromhead-trained Star Girls Aalmal made a winning start on grass when stretching clear inside the final furlong to claim the opening conditions event at Gowran Park in good style. Prettiest made the running in the seven-furlong contest with Seamie Heffernan asking her to quicken up going to the two furlong pole.

Star Girls Aalmal gave chase and claimed the front-runner over a furlong from home.

The Elzaam filly galloped on strongly in the closing stages, under Billy Lee, to record a convincing three length win.

Star Girls Aalmal had two official starts at Dundalk before today, winning a maiden there last November, having also came home in front in a barrier trial at the all-weather venue in September.

She holds an entry in the Irish 1,000 Guineas.

“It was her first run on grass which is always a concern but she handled it well and Billy was happy with her. Her sister Create Belief loved a dig in the ground,” said the winning trainer.

“She’s in the Irish 1,000 Guineas and John Phelan and all the lads involved in her are keen to have a go. The plan was to come here and if it worked out ok we’d go to the Guineas.

“She looked like she stayed on well and should get a mile."

(Quotes by Alan Magee)