Epsom Oaks Betting Preview 2011

The second fillies’ classic takes place on Epsom Downs and is run over 1m4f. Broadcast live on BBC2 we take you through the runners in card order.

1. Beatrice Aurore: 16/1
Won the race formerly known as the Lupe Stakes, the same race that 2010 Oaks winner Snow Fairy took. The quality of the opposition didn’t look up to much but she did everything asked of her.

2. Blaise Chorus: 10/1
Behind Wonder Of Wonders at Chester and still a maiden. No prospect of turning the form around.

3. Blue Bunting: 2/1
An impressive winner of the 1000 Guineas over a trip that was expected to be on the short side. Was still full of running when she crossed the line and a worthy favourite.

4. Dancing Rain: 14/1
Expected to turn around the form with Izzi Top in a more strongly run race but the lack of a turn of foot is a worry around a sharp track.

5. Eirin: 100/1
Hasn’t troubled the judge so far this season and won’t figure at Epsom.

6. Fork Handles: 10/1
One maiden win from six starts isn’t good enough to win at this level.

7. Havant: 6/1
Disappointed in the Guineas when finishing sixth. A step up in trip should suit but she started her finishing run at the same time as Blue Bunting and was well held at the end. Cannot see what will change at Epsom.

8. Izzi Top: 33/1
A late developing type, her one disappointing run was on the undulating track at Newmarket. Would be surprised if Epsom suited her and the form isn’t strong enough to take the risk.

9. Misty For Me: 13/2
Won the Irish Guineas after flopping in the UK version. Question marks over whether she will get a mile and a half based on pedigree. Watching her races, the Oaks might be two furlongs too far.

10. Siren’s Song: 20/1
Only having her third start but she was impressive when winning a 10f listed event at Navan. Has been campaigned with the Oaks in mind and could be the dark horse.

11. Why: 100/1
Never a factor in her races this season.

12. Wonders Of Wonders: 4/1
The best of the Aiden O’Brien sextet. She was an impressive winner at Chester and the only horse capable of closing down long time leader Blaise Chorus. A leading candidate.

13. Zain Al Boldan: 10/1
Still unbeaten, it is difficult to crab her form. An easy winner of the Lingfield Oaks trial she deserves her place in the classic. The form looks a bit unfashionable but is compensated by the price.