Chester May Meeting: A Key Precursor to the Oaks and Derby
The Chester May Meeting this week is expected to provide valuable insights ahead of next month’s prestigious Oaks and Derby at Epsom, following the first two Classics of the Flat season. Aidan O’Brien, a consistent figure at Chester, brings some of his Classic hopefuls to the three-day event, with eyes on the Cheshire Oaks (2.35pm) and Chester Vase (3.05pm) on Wednesday.
Both races are critical in the build-up to the season’s major events, and two of O’Brien’s top contenders, Minnie Hauk and Lambourn, are currently favorites in the market. In addition to these races, Ballydoyle is also expected to dominate Thursday’s Dee Stakes (2.35pm), with Mount Kilimanjaro and Isambard Brunel entered as key players.
The standout event of the week will be Friday’s Chester Cup (3.05pm), a tough, two-mile-two-furlong race that demands stamina and strategy. Chester, with its tight turns and short home straight, presents unique challenges for competitors. Horses with proven form at the track often have an advantage over those with higher ratings but less experience at this specific venue.
One such horse is Emiyn, Declan Carroll’s eight-year-old gelding. Emiyn, a course specialist with three of his five career wins at Chester, finished a close second in the Chester Cup last year. With a two-pound lower mark this season, he’s poised for another strong run. At 33/1, Emiyn presents great value for backers who favor horses with proven course form.
Another intriguing contender is Divine Comedy, a horse that hasn’t raced at Chester before but whose running style suits the course’s tight bends. Having come close in Listed company earlier this season, Divine Comedy is race-fit and should not be underestimated. With a front-running style, she may have the advantage if she secures a good draw. At 20/1, she is a solid pick for punters who believe she can improve on her past form.
In the opening race on Friday (1.30pm), Two Tempting catches the eye at a generous price of 14/1. Trained by Jonny Portman, Two Tempting has been in good form recently and won at Chester over the same distance last season. His solid run in the Spring Cup at Doncaster suggests he’s primed for another strong performance.
Pointers for Friday:
- Two Tempting (e/w) – 1.30pm, Chester
- Emiyn (e/w) – 3.05pm, Chester
- Divine Comedy (e/w) – 3.05pm, Chester
The Chester May Meeting offers plenty of intrigue, with key horses set to make their mark in preparation for the upcoming Classics. The results of these races could provide vital clues as to who will dominate the Oaks and Derby next month.
