Cross makes course experience count in Wexford opener

Treasure The Cross made the breakthrough on outing number three when she put up a commanding performance in the opening Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Fillies Maiden at Wexford.

Pat Smullen soon had the first time blinkered daughter of Cape Cross in front and from the quarter mile pole she wasn't going to be caught as she went on to comfortably account for the favourite, Saajidah by three lengths.

Paddy 'Whacker' O'Brien, representing the winning trainer, Dermot Weld, said: "She was very sharp there with the visor on, not that she needs it. She handles this place well after being second here first time.

"She was unfortunate to run into an in-form Ice Empress in Killarney. She was good there though."

Winning owner/breeder Sean Coughlan of Ridgewood Pearl fame was on hand to greet his winner.