Pricey Sioux Nation Filly Impresses On Debut

City Of Memphis (3f Sioux Nation – Decorative, by Danehill Dancer) justified strong market support on Tuesday when making a stylish debut in the six-furlong maiden at Cork.

The Sioux Nation filly was bought by Paddy Twomey and Avenue Bloodstock last spring for €370,000 and debuted in the colours of the Zinlo Syndicate, who also own Irish Oaks third Purple Lily (Calyx).

Sent off the short-priced favourite under Billy Lee, she was slowly into stride but soon raced in touch with the leaders. Last off the bridle, she was shaken up to lead after the two-furlong pole and ridden a furlong later. Eased down close home, she led by two and three quarter lengths on the line, with another three and a quarter lengths back to the third.

Speaking after the race, Paddy Twomey said: “We bought her off Katie Walsh at the breeze-ups last year and just waited with her. We haven't looked much, but she has plenty of ability and, everything she does, she does with ease.

“We were confident coming here that she would run a good race and I'm delighted she has won. We'll take her home now, and aim to go up the grades, hoping to get black-type.”

The daughter of Sioux Nation was bred by the Decorative Syndicate.