Oaks still very much up for grabs as business-end looms

Two major competitions reach the semi-final stage on the tracks this week with the semi-finals of both the Sporting Press Irish Oaks at Shelbourne and the Bettor.com Northern Irish Derby at Drumbo Park to be run on Saturday.

There is a tremendously representative presence in the Oaks semis with runners being trained in all four provinces. Munster holds pride of place with six runners but this is a classic that could yet go to any corner of Ireland.

The latest favourite for outright honours is Graham Holland’s Cabra Millie after her brilliant effort last week in the semi where she overtook kennel companion Rockburst Delta for a convincing victory. The duo clash again in the first heat but this is a race full of class with ideally housed pair of Tantallons Kay and Glenwood Pixie in one and six respectively and Ilikeyou and College Maybe occupying the middle boxes.