Jewel sparkles in Oaks opener

The McCarthy Insurance Group Cork Oaks kicked-off at Curraheen Park on Saturday with Lughill Jewel setting the early pace with a 28.50 effort in heat in heat 3.

The winner led Newline Honey into the back straight en route to a two length success over the latter with the rest six length and more adrift.

The ‘pack’ included 4/7 favourite Hillcroft Josie who could do no better than a fourth place finish after a slow start.

The winner, posting her sixth success from nine starts, is owned and trained by Tina Cooke in Monasterevin.

Next best on the clock was Champagne Linda who was always in control in heat 2. She eased past kennelmate and favourite Oran Majestic on the run to the bend and at the line had two lengths to spare over Curryhills Roly in 28.77.