THE Irish Oaks is the biggest race in Britain and Ireland this Saturday, as some of the best three-year-old fillies around lock horns at the Curragh.
This year’s race looks set to be another barnstorming affair, with form lines from Epsom and Royal Ascot set to be put to the test.
Tuesday ridden by Ryan Moore (top, dark silks) beats Emily Upjohn ridden by Frankie Dettori to win the Oaks at Epsom
Who will come out on top? Well below you can find out what our prediction for the 1-2-3 in the big race will be.
It’s tough to look beyond red-hot favourite Emily Upjohn as the winner of this one.
The Musidora winner was sent off favourite for the Oaks in June and was unlucky to come away from Epsom as a runner-up.
She endured a nightmare start that day, stumbling out of the gates and losing valuable track position.
Her recovery in such circumstances was remarkable and had she been sent for home split-second earlier she would surely have beaten Tuesday.
Her upward trajectory looks to exceed that of all her rivals here and with a clear run, she should win this one with something to spare.
Chasing her home could be Emily Dickenson of Aidan O’Brien’s, who bounced back from a poor run in the Lingfield Oaks Trial at Leopardstown last time.
She was highlighted as a leading Classic player for Ballydoyle earlier this season and dropping back to 1m4f should suit here.
Ryan Moore’ choice of ride will give an indication of how the O’Brien team ranks its three chances but Emily Dickenson looks less exposed than her stablemates.
It’s also tough to see Magical Lagoon not making the frame after her win the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot.
She is certainly tracking in the right direction and should give a good account of herself if at least reprising the form of her Ascot win.
Jessica Harrington is as good as any at preparing fillies for big races, so there’s pliantly in her favour.
Irish Oaks tricast
- Emily Upjohn 1/2
- Emily Dickenson 16/1
- Magical Lagoon 4/1
Prices from Paddy Power
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