The Gr.2 Matamata Breeders' Stakes is the next target for impressive debut winner Florence Jean.

Florence Jean Picture:Kenton Wright

“I gave her about three weeks off after Ruakaka. The short spell has been good for her, she looks a million dollars,” Taupiri owner-trainer John Morell said.

“She didn't miss much work and we swam her a few times. She's quiet at home, but she can be a bit stroppy especially when there are a lot of horses around.

“She likes working at Te Rapa where it’s quiet, but she can be a little madam when we go to Cambridge where it’s a busy training centre.

“I put the blinkers on at Ruakaka, but not for her work, though it looks like we might have to keep them on for Matamata.”

Morell said Florence Jean warranted her place in the Breeders’ Stakes, to be run on Saturday week.

“It’s a step up, but she deserves a crack at black type. You have to give them a shot.

“The extra distance should not be a problem and she works left handed at Te Rapa, so Matamata should be okay too. But having said that, I think she prefers the right handed way of going.

“I'm hoping for a little easing of the track. The Dead 4 track at Ruakaka was perfect, plus it was race one, so we had first go there."

Morell was also keen on purchasing Florence Jeans younger brother, offered during the recent NZ Bloodstock’s Select Yearling Sale.

“I didn't go to the sale, but I did have a friend take a look and we went to $60,000 for him,” Morell said.

The Pins colt was knocked down to the O’Sullivan family’s Wexford Stables for $100,000.