Diamond Necklace remained unbeaten as she landed the Group 1 Nassau Stakes in good style.
The daughter of St Mark’s Basilica was arriving into the race on the back of a win in the Prix de Diane.
Moment’s of Joy set the pace under Wayne Lordan, followed closely by William Buick. Buick kicked earlier than most imagined, but ultimately she was outclassed by Diamond Necklace.
See The Fire made it 0-14 in Group 1 contests, and Botagoz failed to step up in grade.
‘A proper racing machine’ – Ryan Moore
Speaking to ITV Racing after the race, Ryan Moore was thrilled with the fillies’ performance. “That’s the best she’s felt, she’s improving with her racing. She’s obviously thriving, it was easy really. She travelled smoothly, a little bit idle in front but she’s a proper racing machine.
“She gives you a classy feel. She’s travelled with loads of pace and enthusiasm, and she has a turn of foot. Her father had a real turn of foot.”
Her part owner Paul Smith said: “She did it very well. I think Ryan called her a racing machine. She’s got a beautiful pedigree by St Mark’s Basilica out of a Dansilli mare. She’s got all the attributes and handles any ground.”
Part owner and Paul’s son Derrick Smith added: “That’s what we’re in this game for to see horses like this. She’s six out of six, she’s done a Bow Echo!”
Aidan O’Brien was typically modest in success after, and suggested she may go to France again for the Arc trials. “Delighted. Listed, she’s a very special filly. She went against the older fillies today, you never know until you do it. She could go to York, France, she’s got a lot of options”
It was an eighth Nassau success for Aidan O’Brien, putting him level with Sir Henry Cecil in the contest.