Impressed O'Donoghue waxing lyrical over Alpha Centauri

Colm O'Donoghue says Alpha Centauri is so big and covers so much ground with her giant stride that everything feels like slow-motion to her.

The unbeaten daughter of Mastercraftsman, who is no bigger than 2-1 for the Albany Stakes, made it two from two at Naas on Sunday with an explosive five-length victory at Listed level and O'Donoghue is excited about the prospect of partnering the Jessica Harrington-trained filly at Royal Ascot.

"She's such a big girl and she covers so much ground that everything feels like slow-motion to her. For every stride she takes, other fillies are taking two strides," O'Donoghue said.

"The first day I sat on her was when she won her maiden at Naas but I didn't get to teach her much because she bounced out and made all.

"She fills the entire stall and she got a bit of a shock when they opened on Sunday. But that was probably a blessing in disguise as it allowed me to teach her more and she learnt a lot. She really picked up when I gave her a squeeze. You'd have to be delighted with the performance and she's one to very much look forward to if she goes to Royal Ascot."

O'Donoghue, who is still a big part of the Ballydoyle team, has struck up a great relationship with the Harrington stable this season and Alpha Centauri was his 13th winner from 50 rides for the Moone trainer since the turf season started.

"I've really enjoyed riding for Jessie and I've been very lucky to have Bocca Baciata last season and now Alpha Centauri this season. There are plenty of other high-class horses in the stable too and even the handicappers are running well. I couldn't be happier and long may it continue," O'Donoghue added.