No Nay Never Filly Crowned A Rising Star On Debut

The well-supported Deneuve (2f No Nay Never - Actress, by Declaration Of War) finished strongly to make a winning debut in Monday’s fillies maiden at Naas.

Sent off favourite under Ryan Moore, the Aidan O’Brien-trained bay raced prominently throughout the six furlong contest and was asked to quicken approaching the final furlong. Producing a strong challenge inside the final furlong, she led close home to beat Comanche Country (Highland Reel) by a short head, with a length and a half back to La Dolce Vita (Caravaggio) in third.

“She could be anything,” O’Brien said after the race. “She’s a nice mover and has natural ability. Ryan said anything could happen after that.” On future plans, he added, “It’s nice to get her started and we’ll give her two or three weeks and go back for a winners’ race.”

Deneuve’s debut performance saw her earn “TDN Rising Star” status, a title previously held by Ten Sovereigns (No Nay Never). Owned by Westerberg with breeders Coolmore, the first foal out of dual Group 3 winner Actress hails from No Nay Never’s most exciting crop of racing age, having been bred off the back of Ten Sovereign’s unbeaten juvenile campaign and Coventry Stakes victor Arizona (No Nay Never).