“I hope this is the first of many winners for the partnership of Mary Slack and Michael Javett,” said Mike de Kock after three-year-old filly Cio-Cio (photo) had won nicely on her 1200m debut at Scottsville on Sunday.

Cio-Cio was the first runner to race for this formidable duo, who supported the stable with a few well-bred purchases at the Tattersalls Sale in Ireland last month.

“I can’t say enough how privileged we are to have owners of this calibre in the yard. I hope Cio-Cio wins more, she has promise. I believe a partnership of seasoned and knowledgeable owners like this will create their own luck. I look forward to big things for Mary and Mr Javett,” Mike added.

Cio-Cio, ridden by Warren Kennedy, had no trouble in disposing of her rivals, winning by 2,25-lengths. She’s by Danzig stallion Exchange Rate (USA), who sired 10 stakes winners around the world last year, from a mare by Woodman.

Cio-Cio was selected and purchased in Argentina by Jehan Malherbe’s Form Bloodstock.