Irish Oaks Betting: The market leaders assessed...

Events / Wayne Bailey / 10 July 2008 / Leave a Comment

Wayne Bailey runs through for the Irish Oaks, which takes place at the Curragh this coming Sunday.

He's often criticised for his mob handed approach in the big races, but the racing hacks won't bother Aidan O'Brien as he tries to land his seventh consecutive Irish classic this weekend. He confirmed yesterday that he'll be using the same tactics again, and will have at least four running for him in an attempt to land the fantastic prize of €500,000.

In the words of the great man himself: "Moonstone will run, as will Ice Queen. Gentle On My Mind is also a confirmed runner, as is Adored. I may also run another one but they are my four main contenders."

Dermot Weld's stable must also be respected here, while André Fabre is not without a chance with his sole entry. Here's a look at the ones to watch:

Moonstone (Aidan O'Brien): Second in the Epsom Oaks this year, Moonstone has a great chance at putting things right, and her early market favouritism is justified. Her price is floating around the [3.2] mark but I'd expect that to come in closer to the race. She was friendless at Epsom and went off at a Betfair SP of [38.0], with that race won by outsider Look Here at [63.0]. The noises from O'Brien's yard can't be ignored however, and she's reportedly in fine form. She has only run three times to date, and is yet to clock a win - but she has bundles of potential and we should hear plenty about her this year. She'll definitely carry my money in the win market.

Katiyra (John Oxx): Oxx has won this race three times to date, and his sole entry Katiyra is a very interesting contender. She didn't like the course at Epsom, but must be given credit for battling on strongly and claiming third place. The Curragh should be more to her liking and while I don't believe she'll reverse the form with Moonstone, I'll definitely keep her on my side in the place market.

Gagnoa (Andre Fabre): Fabre rarely sends his horses to Ireland so I assume he rates Gagnoa highly if he's making the trip over. She was second in the French equivalent - the Prix de Diane, with that race going to hot favourite Zarkava. She's won three Group races to date, and definitely poses a big threat. However, I believe she's slightly out of her depth in this company, and while I wouldn't suggest a lay, I'd rather not get involved at a single figure price.

Chinese White (Dermot Weld): She was ninth at Epsom and I don't think there's any reason she'll turn that form around here. She won a Listed race at Gowran Park back in May, but doesn't look ready for top-level Group One racing just yet. I expected her to be priced in double figures and I'm surprised by some early support. I'm going to suggest a place lay here at what should be a fairly short price.

Mad About You (Dermot Weld): She put in a gutsy performance when coming second in the Pretty Polly Stakes at the Curragh last time out, but never troubled the eventual winner Promising Lead. She can hold her head up high here, as her record in Group One races is very respectable indeed, with four placings from four runs. I'm wondering however, if she's going to be one of those frustrating horses who knocks on the door each time, but never quite gets there. She's one for the notebook, but I'm not keen on backing her until she proves herself with a win at this level.

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