Fillies, No Fellas: Looking Back At Guests’ 2023 Kentucky Oaks Picks

In a revival of last year’s segment of the same name, I asked nearly every woman who has ever appeared on Paddy’s Picks to provide a pick for the Kentucky Oaks. The primary motivation for originally making this article was the opportunity to use the phrase, “Fillies, No Fellas,” the origin of which I’ve forgotten, but it actually turned out well enough to try again.

Unlike last year’s piece, this article is being published after the Kentucky Oaks, giving me the opportunity to provide grades for every single pick. Yes, letter grades. There are two ways that readers can interpret this editorial choice. Assigning grades could allow me to write less while hopefully still providing a fun environment for contributors. It could also allow me to pass harsh judgment on people who don’t know what they’re doing. I refuse to elaborate further. read more

Fillies, No Fellas: Kentucky Oaks Guest Analysis

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. read more

Paddy’s Picks 2022 Kentucky Oaks Preview

Happy Derby Eve everyone! Before we culminate our journey to the Kentucky Derby, it’s just as important to take a look at the Kentucky Oaks, especially this year’s running. 

This year’s Oaks field is one of the most competitive that I’ve ever seen, to the point that at least four fillies could have easily been contenders in the Derby if they had chosen to run against the boys. Secret Oath, Nest, Echo Zulu and Kathleen O. are a stellar quartet, and any of them could win in a race that will likely take place in the rain and mud.  read more

Nittany Buy-Ins: Kentucky Oaks Preview w/ Guest Handicapper Emma Moquin

Every year, on the eve of the Kentucky Derby, the country’s top three-year-old fillies make their best attempt to upstage the boys in the Kentucky Oaks. In many past renditions, the smaller, all-female event has paled in comparison to the larger, mostly male Derby. This year, however, may be a little different.

While Tiz the Law prepares to romp again tomorrow against a weak Derby field, this year’s Oaks field features two of the most compelling fillies in recent memory. Gamine, the inexperienced superstar, will face off against Swiss Skydiver, the battle hardened powerhouse, in a highly anticipated showdown that’s been building for months. read more