Import impresses on Aussie debut

Irish galloper Sharalam made a successful Australian debut for the Mark Kavanagh stable at Sandown on Wednesday.

Sporting the noseroll worn by another of the stables imports in December Draw Sharalam showed a sparkling turn of foot to record a come from behind win in the Le Pine Funerals Handicap over what was thought to be the unsuitable distance of 1400m.

"We thought 'we'll give him a light race and he'll be finishing off hard and when it rains we'll sort of find a nice race for him and he'll be happy'" said trainer Mark Kavanagh who was taken a little by surprise.

Sharalam, a son of Irish Derby and King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner Alamshar, arrived in Australia in June last year after being sourced from Ireland.

His first up win was reminiscent of December Draw who made a winning debut for the stable in May 2011 and then went on to win four of his next five starts including the Group One Turnbull Stakes.

"He came with better ratings and form than December Draw. He's a progressive sort of a horse and he's pretty exciting as well" said Kavanagh.

Kavanagh is yet to decide on the next start for Sharalam, who is expected to appreciate wet tracks, but options could include a trip to the Brisbane Winter carnival.

Special thanks to Slickpix for use of their photo.