Sioux Nation Filly Skips Clear To Maiden Victory

Ocean Jewel (2f Sioux Nation - Many Colours, by Green Desert) continued Sioux Nation’s fantastic start at stud when running out a commanding winner of Friday’s fillies’ maiden at Down Royal.

Dropping back to five furlongs on her second start, the Willie McCreery-trained bay was sent off favourite under Billy Lee, who rode his mount to chase the leader. Leading from two furlongs out, she soon quickened clear and was eased down to score by four lengths.

“Ocean Jewel is a lovely filly,” McCreery later confirmed. “She's very well bred so it's important to keep the family tradition going. We'll step her up now maybe this year but we'll take our time as she's still growing. She's always worked nicely and did it well there.”

Ocean Jewel is indeed well-bred, being a half-sister to dual Group 1 winner Mother Earth (Zoffany). Owner Al Shira’aa Racing stretched to €230,000 to secure the daughter of Sioux Nation from breeder Grenane House Stud at the Goffs Orby Sale, where her Zoffany half-brother will go under the hammer later this month.