Giza Goddess topped off a terrific 2018 for leading First-Crop sire Cairo Prince with a win in Santa Anita Park’s Blue Norther S. on Dec. 30.
The win was the 2-year-old filly’s first stakes start and came on the heels of a dominating 5 1/4-length maiden win on Dec. 1 over the Del Mar turf course.
Giza Goddess got away in good order in the one-mile turf affair, but was forced a bit wide going into the first turn. After a half-mile in :46.54, Giza Goddess made a swift move from third to challenge Courteous for the lead. Taking over at the top of the lane, Giza Goddess dug in resolutely to hold Colonial Creed at bay, winning by a half-length in 1:34.64 on the firm turf.
“I think switching to the turf is what has moved her up,” said winning trainer John Shirreffs. “It’s made all the difference with this filly. It was nice to be able to run back again at a mile, but beating maidens is one thing and beating winners is another. I was wondering if she’d settle well today, and she did.”
Giza Goddess, purchased by owner West Point Thoroughbreds and Mercedes Stables LLC for $200,000 at the 2017 Keeneland September Yearling sale, is now 2-0-1 in six starts, with her best three performances all coming on the grass. Her earnings now stand at $92,980.
Bred by Clarkland Farm, Giza Goddess is the second foal out of Comfort and Joy, who is a half-sister to graded stakes winner The Pamplemousse.
Cairo Prince’s outstanding first crop has now accounted for 19 individual winners of more than $1.2 million. His three stakes horses include Iroquois S. (G3) winner Cairo Cat and Grade 2-placed Pakhet. Cairo Prince’s fee for 2019 has been set at $25,000 stands and nurses.
