As Epsom prepares for its prestigious Oaks Day, racing expert Kevin Blake has revealed his top picks for the event. This year’s Epsom Classics promise excitement and anticipation as the unique track presents a real challenge for every competing horse.
Kevin Blake’s Top Picks for Epsom Oaks Day
The event features several standout races, among which the Betfred Diomed Stakes and the Betfred Oaks highlight the day’s schedule. With a rich history and a reputation for unpredictability, Epsom is always a thrilling venue for horse racing enthusiasts.
Key Races to Watch
- Betfred Diomed Stakes (2:40 PM)
- Betfred “Nifty 50” Handicap (3:15 PM)
- Betfred Oaks (4:00 PM)
Highlighted Selections
In the Betfred Diomed Stakes, Kevin Blake endorses Ice Max, trained by Karl Burke. After previously finishing third at Chester’s Huxley Stakes, Ice Max showed promise at Goodwood and finished a close second in this race last year. His potential for success rests on a well-timed delivery during the race.
For the Betfred “Nifty 50” Handicap, Blake suggests taking a chance on Auld Toon Loon, trained by Tom Dascombe. The seven-year-old horse has demonstrated a capability to perform well in recent outings. Despite a waiting style requiring luck, Auld Toon Loon is likely to benefit from the recently arrived rain, making him a strong contender.
The Betfred Oaks: A Closer Look
The main highlight is the Betfred Oaks, which features strong competitors such as Aidan O’Brien’s contenders: Amelia Earhart and Cameo. Both horses are notable stayers, which is crucial for this prominent race.
Among the contenders, Blake emphasizes Thundering On, trained by Joseph O’Brien, as having strong form. Daughter of the famed Frankel and the Group 1 winner Thundering Nights, Thundering On has improved noticeably throughout her four starts. Most recently, she celebrated a commanding victory in the Salsabil Stakes at Navan, showcasing her ability to quicken in key moments. With her adaptable nature and suitability for the rain-soaked track, Thundering On appears poised for success.
As Epsom welcomes another thrilling day of racing, fans can look forward to competitive contests and the potential for surprises, especially with Blake’s insights on these promising horses.
