Crystal Ocean Newcomer Bolts Up In Bumper

Watamu (3f Crystal Ocean – Woolstone One, by Authorized) could hardly have been more impressive when striding clear in Thursday’s bumper for three-year-old fillies at Stratford.

The Pat Murphy-trained newcomer raced prominently under Harry Bannister and was travelling well when leading from four furlongs out. Pushed clear approaching the final furlong, she stayed on well to beat the well-backed favourite by eight and a half lengths.

Paul Jacobs’ homebred filly becomes the first winner out of her dam, Woolstone One. She hails from the first crop of Crystal Ocean, which also includes the 100-rated Wild Waves and fellow dual winner Maritime Lady.

Crystal Ocean's first three-year-olds also proved popular at this year’s store sales, the highlight being Harold Kirk, Willie Mullins and MV Magnier spending €120,000 on one at the Derby Sale. Other purchasers included Cobajay Stables, Kevin Ross, Milestone Stables, Gerry Hogan, Monbeg Stables, Margaret O’Toole and Highflyer Bloodstock.

Earlier that afternoon, a colt foal by Crystal Ocean was crowned the winner of the Richard Aston Colts’ Class at the Goffs British Breeders Showcase foal show. Little Lodge Stud’s offering subsequently sold to Simon Sweeting for £40,000.

On his purchase, Sweeting commented: “I thought he was a fabulous mover, he’s very balanced and is by a very exciting young stallion. I hope he’ll go on and grow into a lovely looking three-year-old because the plan is to re-offer him at the store sales.”