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Oaks Betting: The Irish challenge assessed

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Wayne Bailey on the four Irish horses bidding for Oaks glory at Epsom tomorrow.

Aidan O'Brien trained horses have won this race a number of times in recent years, the most recent being Alexandrova in 2006. He has a number of runners this year, but faces stiff challenges from fellow countrymen Jim Bolger, Dermot Weld and John Oxx. Here's the low-down on the main Irish contenders...

Lush Lashes
She loved the extra distance last time out in the Musidora Stakes and should have no problem with the distance here. At the time of writing, she's [4.2] in the betting and I'm happy to take that price. Jim Bolger has worked wonders in getting her back to form and she's a very serious contender to raid the prize for Ireland.

Chinese White
Jockey Pat Smullen has high hopes for this filly and has said that he "wouldn't swap her for anything". With two wins from two runs, she's done nothing wrong and I'd be surprised if she's not fighting it out for a place at least.

Katiyra
The John Oxx yard has reported her to be in fine form and are hugely excited about tomorrow. However, I've a feeling that this race is a bit too optimistic, and she may be found wanting when the going gets tough.

Adored
She ran a nice front-running race when winning a Group Three at Naas last time out, and punters have latched one since Murtagh committed to riding her. If she doesn't get boxed in, she should put up a reasonable challenge.

Suggestion: She'll probably go off favourite, but it's hard to get away from Lush Lashes, who looks the clear form pick on all levels. Chinese White gets the vote for the place market.