Modeyra

There was a lot to like about the manner in which the Godolphin newcomer Modeyra won the one-mile two-year-old fillies' maiden at Doncaster on Friday. She travelled well throughout in the front rank, raced wide into the home straight as the field came down the centre, but travelled best of all and could have been called the most likely winner passing the three-furlong pole. The way she quickened at the two-furlong pole was impressive, she quickly put a distance of ground between herself and her field a furlong and a half out and then stayed on well, always looking comfortable in the face of a late rally from Gertrude Bell on the far side.

It is probable that this was a really good maiden. The second, third and fourth, Gertrude Bell, Cheetah and Giants Play, from the Gosden, Cumani and Stoute yards respectively, all carried good form into the race, they had all had racing experience, and Modeyra beat them well, with the four of them finishing well clear of their rivals. Modeyra is by Shamardal, out of the Unfuwain mare Zahrat Dubai, who finished third when favourite for Ramruma's Oaks, and who won the Musidora and the Nassau Stakes as a three-year-old. There is every chance that Modeyra could go right to the top next season. She could easily be an Oaks filly, and odds of 33/1 about her even at this stage are not too short.

23rd October 2009

© The Irish Field, 24th October 2009

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