Balakirev (3g St Mark’s Basilica - Padovana, by Sea The Moon) made the perfect start to his career with a comfortable debut win at Dieppe on Monday. The Francis Graffard-trained gelding was ridden by Mickael Barzalona and the pair settled in midfield before making headway turning into the home straight. Balakirev took up the lead with two furlongs left to run and stayed on to strike by a length and three-quarters. Balakirev was bred by Haras de Bourgeauville and continues the fine run of form for St Mark’s Basilica, sire of Sunday’s Group 1 Prix Jean Prat winner Thesecretadversary, as well as this year’s unbeaten dual French Classic victress Diamond Necklace.