The bulk of the Kentucky Oaks field will be determined this weekend with 4 major Oaks preps. Lets take a look at the 3 of the major Oaks preps this week.
Ashland Stakes:
The Ashland brings back Peace and War off the long layoff who is attempting to double up with a win to match the victory last fall. Lassofthemohicans ships up from Florida and has good form and fits with this field. Angela Renee had a rough trip in last and faced a monster that day in I’m a Chatterbox. Angela Renee has alternated solid races with sub par efforts, could bounce back with a big effort. Silverpocketsfull is better than last race shows and will be closing late. Patient trainers and long work tab may like the distance. A low price and late shipping makes Peace and War vulnerable off the layoff.
Lassofthemohicans is the selection boxed with Angela Renee and Silverpocketsfull.
The Gazelle
The Gazelle has another vulnerable favorite in Condo Commando who has taken advantage of weak fields, biased tracks and sloppy track conditions to record some big victories. Jacaranda ships up from Florida and has two wins in New York. Wonder Gal had to scratch a couple of weeks ago in the obvious 6 furlong prep, but brings class to the table.
Jacaranda looks poised to break out with a big effort. Speed to spare and one prep – back to the scene of the crime. Wonder Gal to complete the exacta.
Santa Anita Oaks
Solid prep out West with Luminance, Stellar Wind and Wild At Heart battling at Santa Anita. Stellar Wind won the Las Virgenes which did not have a strong field this year. Won with style and should like the distance and has recent workouts. Luminance got the head bob over Wild At Heart in the last race. Luminance has fast works and should be fit 2nd time off the bench. Lots of talent. Wild At Heart sports a 6 furlong recent move. Maiden win was visually impressive defeating some top maidens while getting hammered at the windows. Light the City is consistent but may be overmatched on the pace front.
Wild At Heart is the selection to win a thriller with Luminance. Tough race to call with 5 legit win contenders.
Early Oaks Field ….. in the Gate:
I’m a Chatterbox – 3 bagger at the Fairgrounds
Birdatthewire – finished strong on dull track
Eskenformoney – consistent and built like a router – tested
Danessa Deluxe – impressive off the layoff
Forever Unbridled – may have been intimidated at the rail.