Black-Type Aim For Progressive Zoffany Filly

The Group 3 Ballyogan Stakes may be next for Woody Creek (3f Zoffany - Belle Isle, by Pastoral Pursuits) after the Fozzy Stack-trained filly completed back-to-back wins in the Rated Race at Cork on Wednesday.

Owned by Craig Bernick, she lost her maiden tag last time out in a premier handicap at Naas and then, like now, was ridden by Andy Slattery over six furlongs. The bay was sent off favourite, held up in a field of five and improved to challenge two furlongs from home. Leading over a furlong out, she kept on well to extend her advantage to two and a half lengths on the line.

Speaking after the race, Stack said, “She did it well and is just starting to get her confidence back. Hopefully she keeps progressing and we'll see where we go next. She holds an entry for the Ballyogan Stakes and I wouldn't rule it out, an owner-breeder has her.”

Bred by Biddestone Stud, Woody Creek was bought by De Burgh Equine for €180,000 at the Goffs Orby Sale. She is a half-sister to Group 3 Cornwallis Stakes winner Abel Handy and comes from the speedy family of Ya Malak and Kiyoshi.