The Oaks, run every year on the first Friday in June at Epsom Downs, is the second fillies’ Classic of the season in Britain after the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

As such, is one of the most important flat races of the entire year. Winning this event is huge for all concerned.

Naturally, a Group 1 race, The Oaks is worth well over £500,000, is a Classic, and drastically affects the value of a broodmare having won or been placed in this race.

The third of five Classics after the 2000 Guineas and 1000 Guineas but before both The Derby and the St Leger, The Oaks is the original race, the title of which has been replicated many times over around the world.

Previous winners of The Oaks have gone into racing folklore, including Pretty Polly, Rockfel, Sun Chariot, Musidora, Sweet Solera, Oh So Sharp, Ouija Board, and Taghrooda, some of whom have since had big races named in their honour.