The excitement is palpable at Churchill Downs as the 2025 Kentucky Oaks unfolds today, May 2, 2025. Known as the "Run for the Lilies," this prestigious race showcases the best three-year-old fillies in the country, all vying for a share of the impressive $1.5 million purse. The Oaks is held annually on the day before the Kentucky Derby, and this year, a full field of 14 elite contenders is set to compete in the 1 1/8-mile race on the dirt track.
This year, the spotlight shines on Good Cheer, the 6-5 morning line favorite, who enters the race undefeated in her six career starts. Trained by Brad Cox and ridden by jockey Luis Saez, Good Cheer represents the Godolphin racing stable owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Her impressive record includes a victory in the Grade 2 Fasig-Tipton Fair Grounds Oaks, where she won by 3.5 lengths, earning a remarkable 102 Speed Figure. She will be looking to maintain her perfect record and make history as the first unbeaten filly to win the Kentucky Oaks since 2021.
However, the competition is fierce, with eight last-out stakes winners in the mix, including Tenma, trained by the renowned Bob Baffert. Tenma, who has a record of five wins from six starts, is considered a strong contender with morning line odds of 12-1. Another notable competitor is La Cara, who comes in as the second choice with odds of 6-1 after a stellar performance at Keeneland's Grade 1 Ashland Stakes.
As the day progresses, the weather is a significant factor, with rain forecasted for Louisville. This could lead to a muddy track, which may influence the race's outcome. Horses like Drexel Hill and Anna's Promise have shown they can handle wet conditions, making them ones to watch as the race approaches.
The Kentucky Oaks is not just a race; it’s a celebration of female empowerment in horse racing, drawing attention to the remarkable fillies that have shaped the sport. The race has been a staple at Churchill Downs since 1875 and continues to be a pivotal event in the racing calendar. The day is filled with festivities, including the Kentucky Oaks Survivors Parade, celebrating breast and ovarian cancer survivors, adding a layer of meaning to the event.
Fans can tune in to watch the excitement unfold live on USA Network, with coverage beginning at 1 p.m. EDT, leading up to the main event at 5:51 p.m. EDT. The Oaks is the 11th race on a packed card of 13 races, making it a highlight of the day.
The anticipation builds as spectators and bettors alike prepare for what promises to be a thrilling race. With so much talent in the field, the question remains—will Good Cheer continue her winning streak, or will another filly rise to the occasion and claim victory? As the horses prepare for the starting gate, the stage is set for an unforgettable Kentucky Oaks.
