'It's like having a mini La Bague Au Roi when you see her at work'

Saturday: Newcastle

Warren Greatrex had plenty of success with La Bague Au Roi, so it is no surprise to see his excitement after Ici La Reine’s debut win in the opening 2m½f mares' bumper.

The five-year-old, who is a half-sister to dual Grade 1 winner La Bague Au Roi, made an impressive start to her career when finishing six and a half lengths clear of Femme Patronne.

Greatrex said: "She’s a lovely mare who is related to La Bague Au Roi, so there is a bit of pressure, but we’ve taken our time with her and she did it well."

Owned by Julien Turner and Andrew Merriam, Ici La Reine has plenty of potential and Greatrex can see the similarities between the pair.

He said: "La Bague Au Roi was a mare of a lifetime and we have a long way to go to get anywhere near her.

"She’s [Ici La Reine] got a good attitude, plenty of size and she’s very busy at home. It’s like having a mini La Bague Au Roi sometimes when you see her at work.

"It’s great for the owners because La Bague Au Roi was brilliant for them and I think they’ve found a nice one."

Gamble fails

A big gamble on Rocambolas failed in the 2m4f handicap chase when he had to settle for fourth in a race won by Knocknamona.

The six-year-old, who is trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, was as big as 33-1 overnight but was backed into 3-1 for most of the day with Paddy Power. He was eventually sent off at 12-1, but finished 13 and a quarter lengths behind the winner.

Results, replays and analysis

Download the new Racing Post app here to read exclusive content from the biggest names. There are brilliant betting masterclasses from Tom Segal, Paul Kealy and David Jennings, Q&As with pro punters, trainers and jockeys, plus much more. Download the new app now to access all of this unrivalled content.