Gem to star in Oaks

In Smoke Pixie’s absence Cabra Millie, College Maybe and Borna Gem head the market for the Sporting Press Irish Oaks and the trio have managed to avoid each other in tonight’s quarter-finals.

Puppy Oaks winner Borna Gem is bidding emulate the two most recent winners, Dalcash Dvinsky and Droopys Twirl, by taking the all-aged Oaks in the same year.

Ruairi Dwan and Anthony Rhodes’ bitch has looked the part in the past fortnight and her supporters are likely to stay loyal this evening despite a tricky trap-five draw in the opening heat.

Smoke Pixie’s absence leaves Heat 2 wide open. Shes A Tornado, who returned to her best last week, is given the nod.

College Maybe and Tantallons Kay clash in Heat 3, where the early exchanges are crucial. College Maybe has the benefit of the inside, but she needs to be at her sharpest to get the better of her progressive rival.

Despite suffering defeat seven days ago, Borna Millie should have too much ammunition for her rivals in Heat 4. Graham Holland’s flying early pacer missed the kick last time but ran really well to qualify. If she traps tonight, she will take a world of catching.

Elsewhere on the card, 2010 Derby champion Tyrur McGuigan makes his comeback after a near ten-month absence. Recent trials would suggest his well-being, although PJ Fahy has warned his charge is not fully fit.

Fahy has a possible successor to McGuigan in the form of Tyrur Sugar Ray, and this exciting son of former Cork Oaks winner Maireads Fantasy can enhance his already lofty reputation in race five.