A fine shot of Stars So Bright knuckling down under Declan McDonogh© Photo Healy Racing
The Champions Restaurant At Dundalk Stadium Fillies Maiden was supposed to be all about one of the best non-winners in training getting off the mark. However Carla Bianca (4/9) wasn't able to build on her impressive juvenile form as the mile event heralded the arrival of a talented Sea The Stars filly in Stars So Bright
It was fitting that Mick Kinane and John Oxx were at the number one spot to greet Declan McDonogh on his arrival back aboard the 7/1 first-time out winner.
She'd shown a lovely determined attitude and turn of pace to grab the race by the scruff of the neck from under two furlongs out.
It was soon apparent that Stars So Bright wasn't in the mood to be denied and she went to the line strong to see off Sea Coast and Carla Bianca by two and a quarter lengths and a length.
"She's a nice filly. She hadn't done too many work-outs but she has worked well every time.
"I had been aiming two weeks hence but the weather had been so wet I wasn't sure when it would dry up.
"For a filly that was quite green she did well. She showed a good turn of foot," disclosed Oxx.
He then explained: "She's a three parts sister to My Titania (just an 8/1 chance for the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket and 14s for the Oaks). She's quite like her – they're sharp quick types.
"I'm not sure how far the both of them would stay.
"I'm pleased with her and there is a little race for her at Gowran now (May 4th) and she might run there.
"Most Sea The Stars are ground dependent. No doubt some of them will win on soft but they'll be the exceptions as they'd want fast ground." (GC & EM)
