Ms Headley, a 2-year-old filly by Ocala Stud stallion The Big Beast, won on debut at Churchill Downs on Wednesday, May 1, becoming her sire’s first winner and initial starter.

Owned by Christina Jelm and Mike Puhich, Ms Headley broke in good order under Irad Ortiz Jr. and tracked the early pace set by Biddy Duke. She overtook that rival in the late stages to win the five-furlong maiden special weight by two lengths, stopping the clock in :59.22 for trainer Wesley Ward.

Bred in Florida by Ron and Lybby Gay, Ms Headley, an OBS March graduate, is produced from the Trippi mare My Coastie.

The Big Beast, winner of the prestigious King’s Bishop S. (G1) at Saratoga at three in 2014, was one of America’s best Grade 1 sprinters, recording Beyer Speed Figures of 102 and 106 in his stellar racing career. The son of Yes It’s True has been one of the most popular stallions in Florida, covering 232 mares in his first three books, and has been represented in the auction ring this year with first 2-year-olds up to $850,000 and $450,000.