Alassio, at half a million dollars, was the most expensive of the yearlings to go into training at Coolcullen with Jim Bolger last term. The primary attraction for buyers was her dam, Royal Ballerina, who in 1993 had been second in both the English and Irish Oaks.

After three runs, Alassio is still looking for her first success, but as she has already been runner-up in maiden events this year and last, she looks suitable nap material (5-30) in this evening's eight-race card at Gowran Park.

First time out she got within half a length of Purple Risk at The Curragh in October, and while Pebble Beach defeated her by a much wider margin at Leopardstown last month, that Aidan O'Brien-trained winner is already being aimed at Royal Ascot.

Aidan O'Brien will be confirming his position as the top two-year-old trainer as the season develops and Landseer can paint a pretty picture for his punters.