Mataariki makes impression on debut

Mataariki looked like a smart prospect when making a winning debut in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden at Gowran Park.

The Joseph O'Brien-trained daughter of Cracksman went to post a 10/3 shot on her racecourse bow and tracked the leaders early in the mile contest.

Dylan Browne McMonagle asked his mount to challenge a furlong-and-a-half from home and she kicked on over a furlong out to record a convincing three-and-three-quarter length win.

“I'm very happy with her. She didn't really show any signs of greenness, she travelled well throughout the race and quickened up well. She's a smart filly,” said O'Brien.

“I thought she'd run well and we thought she'd handle the ground, Dylan was quite impressed with her as was I.

“I would't be against looking at the Victor McCalmont Stakes back here (May 8th) although it's maybe coming up a bit soon.

“She probably has to go into a stakes race, there is also the fillies ten furlongs race in Naas (Blue Wind Stakes May 11th).

“We'll see how she pulls up and make a plan from there. She handled that ground and will probably always like putting her toe in the ground.”