Aidan O’Brien once again demonstrated his exceptional command of British Classics as Minnie Hauk surged to a narrow victory in the Group One Oaks at Epsom Downs. The Ballydoyle-trained filly edged past her stablemate Whirl in the final strides, securing a memorable one-two for the Irish maestro in the third Classic of the British racing calendar.
In a race where Whirl set the tempo from the outset, it was Minnie Hauk who displayed the maturity and finishing touch needed to prevail. The winning margin was only a neck, but her determination stood out in the closing moments. Despite being well-fancied, the favourite Desert Flower had to settle for third, trailing four lengths behind the Ballydoyle pair.
This victory marks Aidan O’Brien’s 11th triumph in the Oaks, putting him just two wins behind the all-time leader Robert Robson. O’Brien’s incredible legacy in the race includes names like Shahtoush, Imagine, and Snowfall, to name just a few of the fillies who’ve carried his colors to victory on this stage.
Ryan Moore, aboard Minnie Hauk, claimed his fifth Oaks title with a perfectly judged ride. Having partnered the filly at Chester previously, Moore had grown in confidence with her potential. In the Oaks, he expertly timed her run, allowing her to settle before unleashing a powerful late burst to pass Whirl and seal the win.
Post-race, O’Brien praised the filly’s calm temperament and class, emphasizing how much she has developed with each start. He also highlighted her adaptability and traveling ability, two traits that suggest she can hold her own in elite company going forward. O’Brien expressed optimism that Minnie Hauk could progress further, even against older fillies later this season.
Whirl, who led for much of the race under Wayne Lordan, earned plaudits for her resilience. Though overtaken late, she confirmed her stamina and class with a gutsy effort. Lordan noted that the filly was comfortable leading and only tired slightly at the end, having run her heart out.
Meanwhile, Desert Flower’s trainer Charlie Appleby was philosophical in defeat, pointing to the filly’s discomfort navigating Epsom’s unique track. He suggested a run at the Yorkshire Oaks on a flatter course might better suit her style. Jockey William Buick agreed, noting that firmer ground might bring out her best.
Other notable efforts included Giselle, who finished fifth under Colin Keane. The young filly is still learning the ropes but showed promise, according to her rider. Unfortunately, Elwateen failed to fire on the day, with jockey Jim Crowley expressing disappointment in her performance despite an ideal run through the race.
Minnie Hauk’s victory not only adds another feather to the cap of her illustrious trainer and jockey but also underscores Ballydoyle’s continued excellence in nurturing and developing Classic-winning fillies. As the flat racing season progresses, she will be a name to watch on bigger stages.
