Crystal Ocean Four-Year-Old Impresses At Pau

Saint Crystal (4g Crystal Ocean – Sainte Bumble, by Saint Des Saints) shaped like an exciting prospect when running out a stylish winner of the Prix du Cercle Anglais, Saturday’s four-year-old hurdle at Pau.

The Dominique Bressou-trained bay showed the benefit of last month’s debut as he raced prominently throughout under Gabin Meunier and was travelling much the best approaching the turn for home. Quickening to the stands’ side upon entering the straight, he kept on well on the run-in to score by three and a half lengths, with another eight and a half lengths back to the third horse.

Jour de Galop awarded Patrick Joubert and Ecurie Couderc’s homebred a ‘Jumping Star’ for the smart performance. He hails from the first crop of Beeches Stud sire Crystal Ocean, who enjoyed a perfect start to the season when Watamu (Crystal Ocean) ran out an eight and a half length winner on debut at Stratford.

On the flat, he has also been represented by Andrew Balding’s Melrose Handicap fourth Wild Waves, who is currently rated 100. Crystal Ocean’s progeny have also enjoyed significant success in the sales ring, haved sold for up to €120,000 at the store sales.

Purchasers of his first crop included Harold Kirk, Willie Mullins, Cobajay Stables, Gaynestown Stud, Kevin Ross, Monbeg Stables, Mags O’Toole, Gerry Hogan, Milestone Stables, Highflyer Bloodstock and Kingsfield Stud.