Jimmysstar has always possessed that rare x-factor, and on Saturday at Caulfield, he cemented his status as a top-tier performer with a breathtaking maiden Group One victory in the Oakleigh Plate (1100m).

Ridden by Ethan Brown, the well-supported $7.50 chance unleashed a blistering turn of foot, surging past $5.50 favorite She’s Bulletproof at the 200m mark to score by 1¼ lengths. Rey Magnerio ($8) finished a further ¾ of a length away in third.

This triumph marks the biggest win in Jimmysstar’s career, surpassing his Listed Weekend Hussler (1400m) success. Trainer Ciaron Maher has long believed in his Group One ability, regardless of distance.

“I think Ozzie (Kheir) thought I was crazy when I first ran him over 1100m,” Maher admitted.

“But he’s a special horse—he’s always had that x-factor. I have to thank Ozzie, John, and the whole ownership group. They’re incredible to train for, and Ozzie has a knack for finding the best horses.”

Jimmysstar has amassed a dedicated following, and Maher’s patience in his development has now paid off in spectacular fashion.

“Brownie [Ethan Brown] actually said to me before the race, ‘It’s about time,’” Maher revealed with a grin.

For jockey Ethan Brown, this win marked his seventh career Group One success, and even he was left in awe of Jimmysstar’s explosive acceleration.

“I don’t think I’ve ever ridden a horse that quick,” Brown said.

“I’d love to see his late sectionals—he absolutely flew. It’s an unbelievable training performance to have a 1400m horse fresh up in an Oakleigh Plate and run like that.”

Brown shares a close bond with Maher, with six of his seven Group One wins coming under the trainer’s guidance.

“Words can’t express how much I appreciate Ciaron’s support,” Brown said.

“When I took a break from riding early in my career, he sat me down and said, ‘I think you’ve got something special.’ I asked him if he’d back me if I came back, and he said, ‘Yeah, I will.’

“That was five or six years ago, and since then, I’ve put in the work, and he’s backed me every step of the way. To get these big wins for him makes it even more special.”

With Jimmysstar’s breathtaking Oakleigh Plate performance, the future looks bright for Maher’s rising sprinting star.