Minnie Hauk Wins 11th Oaks for Trainer O'Brien at Epsom

Minnie Hauk secured a narrow victory over stablemate Whirl to give trainer Aidan O'Brien his 11th win in the Betfred Oaks at Epsom, with Ryan Moore riding the 9-2 chance to success. The favourite, Desert Flower, finished third after struggling with the track's unique contours and stamina demands. Earlier in the day, O'Brien and Moore celebrated a 10th Coronation Cup triumph as Jan Brueghel, last year's St Leger winner, held off the French favourite Calandagan by half a length in a thrilling finish. O'Brien praised Minnie Hauk as a classy filly who is still improving with racing and noted her potential to compete in even higher-class races, possibly against male horses. Moore's ride was described as tactically excellent, patiently moving Minnie Hauk to challenge and eventually overtake Whirl in the final furlong. O'Brien also expressed admiration for Whirl's staying power and fighting spirit, highlighting the strength of his stable's fillies in top-level contests.