The first Friday in May is upon us, and that means it’s time for the fillies to shine at Churchill Downs! The 2025 Kentucky Oaks, a celebrated tradition in horse racing, will take place on May 2, 2025, and promises to deliver excitement and glamour as it marks its 151st running. With a post time set for 5:51 p.m. ET, this prestigious event attracts attention from horse racing enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
The Kentucky Oaks, often referred to as the sister race to the Kentucky Derby, features a field composed entirely of 3-year-old fillies. This year, 14 horses are set to compete for a share of the impressive $1.5 million purse, with the winner receiving the iconic garland of stargazer lilies. The lilies not only represent victory but also honor women fighting breast and ovarian cancers, aligning with the event’s advocacy efforts.
Good Cheer, trained by Brad Cox, has been named the 6-5 morning-line favorite. This undefeated filly comes into the race with an impressive record of six wins, including a recent victory at the Fair Grounds Oaks (G2) where she triumphed by 3 1/2 lengths. Good Cheer will run from the No. 11 post position, aiming to continue her winning streak and secure her place in history.
Following closely in the odds is La Cara, trained by Mark Casse, who is the second choice with morning-line odds of 6-1. She will be starting from Post 7. Other notable contenders include Quietside at 8-1, and Ballerina d'Oro and Simply Joking, both at 10-1. The full list of horses set to compete includes:
- Early On (30-1)
- Simply Joking (10-1)
- Fondly (30-1)
- Drexel Hill (30-1)
- Quickick (30-1)
- Ballerina d'Oro (10-1)
- La Cara (6-1)
- Five G (12-1) - SCRATCHED
- Tenma (12-1)
- Take Charge Milady (12-1)
- Good Cheer (6-5)
- Anna's Promise (30-1)
- Bless the Broken (30-1)
- Quietside (8-1)
Oaks Day is not just about the races; it’s a full celebration! The festivities kick off early, with gates opening at 9 a.m. ET and the first race starting at 11 a.m. ET. A highlight of the day is the Survivor’s Parade, which honors breast and ovarian cancer survivors. This year, 150 survivors will participate in the parade, which begins around 3:15 p.m. ET, adding a poignant touch to the day’s events.
Fashion is another critical aspect of the Kentucky Oaks. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink, the official color of the event, to celebrate the stargazer lily and support the cause. Those who embrace the theme may even have a chance to win in the fashion contest held after the races.
Weather could play a role in the day’s excitement, as forecasts predict a mix of pleasant conditions early on with potential severe storms developing in the afternoon. Fans attending the event should stay updated on weather alerts, especially as race time approaches.
As the Kentucky Oaks approaches, NBC Sports is gearing up to provide extensive coverage of the event. Live broadcasts will begin at 1 p.m. ET on USA Network and Peacock, leading up to the main race. The Oaks is the 11th of 13 races scheduled for the day, making it a central focus of the festivities.
In the world of horse racing, the Kentucky Oaks holds a special place. It is the longest-running continuous sporting contest in the United States, having first been held on May 19, 1875. This year’s race not only celebrates the rich history of the Oaks but also the bright future of the sport as it showcases talented fillies vying for glory.
With the Kentucky Derby just a day away, the Oaks serves as a perfect lead-in to one of horse racing’s most prestigious events. Last year, trainer Kenny McPeek made headlines by winning both the Oaks and Derby, a feat accomplished by only a select few in history. This year, he hopes to replicate that success with Take Charge Milady, who is coming off a strong second-place finish in the Ashland Stakes (G1).
As fans prepare to place their bets, it’s essential to remember the thrill of the race and the stories behind each horse. The anticipation builds as the horses make their way to the starting gate, and the crowd holds its breath in excitement. Who will claim the title in the 2025 Kentucky Oaks? With so many talented fillies in the mix, it’s anyone’s race.
In conclusion, the 2025 Kentucky Oaks promises to be a remarkable event filled with thrilling races, heartfelt celebrations, and community spirit. Whether you’re watching from home or cheering from the stands, the Oaks is a must-see spectacle that showcases the best of horse racing and the resilience of the human spirit.
