Knockonwood impressed making a winning debut with plenty in hand at Enghien last Wednesday. 

The son of Ready Cash went straight to the lead as the mobile arms retracted and despite this being his first racecourse appearance showed a professional attitude, travelling well and setting a decent pace out front during the first circuit. 

As the six runners went by the stands, winning driver, David Thomain slowed the tempo. There were seven lengths between first and last and at the 1000m marker the Philippe Allaire-trained newcomer still held an advantage, now down to a half-length from Kamehameha. All were travelling nicely and raced two by two down the fair side with a spread of only five lengths covering the field. 

Turning for home, the well-supported Kamehameha (eventually finished fifth) broke stride and was forced out wide which enhanced the chances for Knockonwood and David Thomain as they passed the 500m pole, going three lengths clear from the nearest rival, Képi des Monts. Throughout the home straight, Knockonwood continued to impress stretching clear to be five lengths ahead. The Ready Cash colt was never asked, and David Thomain eased down the two-year-old to produce a highly promising and eye-catching debut victory. He won recording a kilometre rating of a 1'17''3.

The second in the race also showed plenty of promise with Kool des Champs staying on strongly to bridge the gap in the home straight and is another worth keeping in mind. However, the focus should be on the Philippe Allaire debut winner who brings breeding and connections of note. Knockonwood will be open to plenty of improvement as he gains more racing experience, and it will be interesting to see him progress and what longer term goals await.