The Annual Oaks Stakes at Epsom saw favourite Desert Flower beaten by Ryan Moore and Aiden O’Brien as Minnie Hauk took an impressive win at Epsom, denying jockey William Buick and owner Godolphin another group one win this season following the 1000 Guineas, but there were no complaints of Buick’s behalf.
Buick who rode Desert Flower earlier today said ‘I thought she ran very well; she did everything right’ following the third place finish at Epsom, and overall was happy with the performance. Desert Flower who upped her trip to 1m4f for the first time was a challenge, but Buick also stated how the trip wasn't helped by the soft ground. "We were hoping all week that the rain would stay away," said Buick, but the heavy downpour this morning made things much harder for the 11/10 favourite at Epsom.
Ryan Moore who rode Minnie Hauk for legendary trainer Aiden O’Brien won a convincing race to award O’Brien his 11th Oaks winner, and was praised by Buick for her exceptional stamina throughout the race. But it seemed the trip, ground, and tricky course at Epsom was the decider for Godolphin’s Desert Flower today, despite running what Buick said was ‘a balanced race’, it just wasn't her day, and the tricky ups and downs of the Epsom Downs course was no help.
With a bounce back win a no brainer for Desert Flower, the Oaks today showed trainer Charlie Appelby and Buick what kind of horse she really is, and what areas she truly thrives in. Buick said ‘today we confirmed that she is a filly that needs good and fast ground’, identifying where she is good at, and is still arguably one of the best over one mile on her favoured ground. An unlucky day for Buick and Desert Flower, but not a travesty, and a good test that she will learn from.
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