The Irish Oaks 2025: A Punter’s Guide to the Fillies’ Classic

The Irish Oaks isn’t just another race—it’s a proper test of class, stamina, and heart. Held at the Curragh, this Group 1 showdown for three-year-old fillies has been a staple of the summer racing calendar since 1895. With the 2025 renewal just days away (Saturday July 19, to be exact), let’s dive into the stats, trends, and a bit of gut feeling to see what it takes to land this prestigious prize.

The Nitty-Gritty: What Makes a Winner?

1. The Favourite’s Not Always a Sure Thing

Yes, four of the last 12 winners went off as favourites, but eight were in the top three in the betting. Translation? The market usually gets it right, but there’s value to be had if you fancy one at a bigger price.

2. Recent Form is King

• 8 of the last 12 winners had won their previous race.
• 11 of 12 had run within the last six weeks—no room for rusty fillies here.
• Epsom Oaks form matters. Two of the last 12 Irish Oaks winners had won at Epsom, and another placed. If a filly handled the undulations of Epsom, she’ll likely relish the Curragh’s flatter track.

3. Stamina is Non-Negotiable

This isn’t a sprint—it’s a proper 1m4f slog. Eight of the last 12 winners had already won over the trip, and those who hadn’t usually had strong form over 1m2f. If a filly’s been outpaced in shorter races but finishes strongly? She could be the one.

4. Ratings Don’t Lie

10 of the last 12 winners were rated 103 or higher. If a filly’s hovering around the 100 mark, she’ll need to improve a chunk to be competitive.

5. Aidan O’Brien Loves This Race

No surprises here—the Ballydoyle maestro has won seven of the last 12 renewals, including last year with Savethelastdance. If he’s got multiple entries (and he usually does), pay attention to the jockey bookings—they often tell the tale.

Where Do Irish Oaks Winners Go Next?

Winning the Irish Oaks is one thing, but the best fillies usually kick on.

• Yorkshire Oaks (York): Seven of the last 12 winners ran here next, with three winning.
• Champion Fillies & Mares Stakes (Ascot): Five turned up here later in the season, with one adding another Group 1 to her CV.

In short, if a filly wins the Irish Oaks, she’s likely to stay in training and target more top-tier races.

Irish Oaks 2025: Winner Prediction & Each-Way Chance

The 2025 Irish Oaks at the Curragh (July 19) looks set to be a showdown between Aidan O’Brien’s powerhouse fillies and a handful of plucky challengers. Based on recent form, trends, and expert analysis, here’s how the race could unfold:

Predicted Winner: Minnie Hawk 🏆

Why She Wins?

• Epsom Oaks winner (key prep race for this).
• 3 wins from 4 starts, including the Cheshire Oaks.
• Trained by Aidan O’Brien, who has won 7 of the last 12 Irish Oaks.
• Proven over 1m4f – crucial for stamina at the Curragh.
• Highest-rated filly in the field (110+).

“She’s the class act—if she runs to form, she’ll be very hard to beat.”

Best Each-Way Bet: Bedtime Story 💰

Why She’s a Great EW Pick?

• Strong second in the French Oaks (Prix de Diane) last time.
• By Frankel – should relish the step up in trip.
• O’Brien’s second string, but could outrun her odds.
• Beaten just 1L in a G1 last time – form stacks up.

“At the prices, she’s the value play for a place—possibly even an upset.”

Final Verdict

• Win: Minnie Hawk (too strong if she handles the quick turnaround).
• Each-Way: Bedtime Story (ideal for a top-3 finish at a fair price).

Other Contenders:

• Whirl (O’Brien again).
• Wemightakedlongway (could sneak into the frame at decent odds).

Irish Oaks Tips

Final Selections and Tips for the Irish Oaks and other ITV Races will be available to all members who have at least a Sapphire Membership of One Stop Racing, these will be sent out either the evening before or the morning of the race.