Race To Watch / Timeform / 04 November 2009 / Leave a comment

A clutch of two-year-olds impressed in this juvenile maiden at HQ

This was a typical late-season juvenile maiden (seven furlongs), featuring plenty of well-bred youngsters from some of the top Newmarket yards, and showcasing some encouraging debut displays which look well worth putting in the notebook. An interesting point to note is that the pace here was noticeably steadier than the first division and yet the final recorded time was only 0.09 seconds slower, indicating that this event is potentially very strong.

The Brian Meehan-trained Field Day made a winning debut and there was plenty to like about the performance. Having raced keenly while in touch, the daughter of Cape Cross made headway with great comfort before readily putting the race to bed inside the final furlong. Despite a pedigree which suggests that middle distances should suit, Field Day showed plenty of speed, leading Martyn Dwyer to describe her as a potential 1,000 Guineas contender. Field Day looks one to keep a close eye on.

The beautifully-bred Safina, out of 1000 Guineas winner Russian Rhythm, shaped with plenty of promise on her racecourse bow. Reportedly highly regarded, and sent off the 11/4 favourite, the daughter of Pivotal kept on to take third, receiving a considerate ride in the process. Safina looks sure to improve and is likely to prove tough to beat in a similar race next time.

Despite being unable to continue the incredible run of success of the Godolphin stable, Perfect Note shaped with encouragement in fourth, not knocked about when held. She looks sure to progress from the outing and is likely to thrive when racing over 1m+.

Similar comments apply to the John Dunlop-trained Madhaaq, who finished fifth, having shown signs of experience. The daughter of Shamardal is likely to be well suited by distances upwards of a mile and should figure prominently next time, if running in a similar event.

Tags: Field Day, Madhaaq, Newmarket, Perfect Note, Safina