Improving Son Of Australia Makes All To Maiden Victory

Van Demon (3g Australia - Myrica, by Dansili) took another step forward on Wednesday to get off the mark in the mile and a half maiden at Cork.

Trained by Noel Meade for Mrs Patricia Hunt, the progressive chesnut was last seen finishing second to Stakes performer Shamwari (Justify) and was well-supported on his fourth start. Ridden to make all by Colin Keane, he delivered when challenged two furlongs from home and ran on well to score by a length and three quarters. Well-related newcomer Hardpoint (Camelot) took second, ahead of the favourite Jupiter Rock (Fastnet Rock) in third.

“That was straightforward for Van Demon,” Colin Keane said after the race. “He had a nice draw, it's lovely ground and he had an easy time in front. He's improved for every run and should prove versatile trip-wise.”

Van Demon was bred by Ballygallon Stud out of their homebred half-sister to the 102-rated Eddystone Rock (Rock Of Gibraltar).

Meanwhile, over at Doncaster, Australia’s sole offering at the Goffs Premier Yearling Sale sold for £100,000. Yeomanstown Stud’s successful pinhook will be trained by Donnacha O’Brien, whose Bawnmore Racing co-signed for the filly with Avenue Bloodstock and Medallion Racing.