Group 1 Glory For St Mark’s Basilica’s Unbeaten Diamond Necklace

Diamond Necklace (2f St Mark’s Basilica - Prudenzia, by Dansili) became the first Group 1 winner for St Mark’s Basilica when impressing in the Prix Marcel Boussac at Longchamp on Sunday.

The Ballydoyle-trained filly was maintaining her unbeaten record with a length victory, having captured the Listed Ingabelle Stakes at Leopardstown in fine style last month on her second start.

Ridden by Christophe Soumillon, Diamond Necklace was positioned midfield and came to press the leaders two furlongs out. She kept on to take the lead and score readily.

Aidan O’Brien said: “We thought this filly was a bit babyish to come here, but Christophe rode her in Leopardstown and said we should let her come and then leave her alone after that for the year.

“I would imagine we’ll put her away now and I’d say she’ll probably start with a Guineas preparation, as we do with them all, and then take it from there – she’s not short of speed.

“She’s improving and the St Mark’s Basilica horses have been doing that – every week for the last two months they’ve been getting better. He didn’t win his Group race until the Dewhurst and his offspring are obviously very like him.

“She’s a lovely filly and Christophe gave her a lovely ride.”

The Ecurie des Monceaux and Skymarc Farm-bred filly hails from the first crop of world champion three-year-old St Mark’s Basilica. His exciting two-year-olds also includes Group 2 May Hill Stakes scorer Aylin, Tipperary Listed victor Thesecretadversary and the Group-placed Rogue Supremacy and Princess Petrol.