Most years, the running of the Kentucky Oaks the day before the Kentucky Derby is little more than a stepping stone to the feature event of the weekend. After all, most fillies simply aren’t as fast as the colts, and the Oaks represents their initiation into all-female competition for the rest of their careers.
But sometimes, the Kentucky Oaks represents the first step in one of the most interesting circumstances in racing: a filly proving herself and going on to face the boys. In this sense, it represents hope and doesn’t happen often. Rachel Alexandra did it in 2009, winning the Oaks before defeating Derby winner Mine That Bird in the Preakness. Swiss Skydiver did it in 2020, finishing second in the Oaks before defeating Derby winner Authentic. This year, four fillies seem qualified to take this rare step forward. This isn’t just your average year.
