Clive Cox’s promising newcomer Ficoma showed a smart change of gear to take the Drive Bristol Accident Repair Centre Maiden Auction Fillies’ Stakes at Bath.
Not ignored in the betting ring and backed into 9-1, the juvenile was dropped out in the early stages of the extended five-furlong race and made steady headway approaching the distance.
Adam Kirby hit the front inside the final furlong and soon went clear on the Piccolo filly, who beat Reem Al Fallah by a staying-on length and a half with Foxy Games taking third.
“She is a really sweet filly who has just com to herself in the last couple of weeks and she has done that nicely,” said Cox.
“I am over the moon with that for her debut run. She was in touch and helped by those with experience.
“She will now go for the Watership Down Stud Sales race at Ascot next month and we put her through the ring to run in these races.”