Aidan O'Brien's dominance in the Irish Oaks is undeniable, with a record-breaking eight wins. But the question remains: which of his winners was the most exceptional? Let's delve into the rankings and uncover the story behind each champion.
8. Bracelet (2014)
Bracelet's Irish Oaks victory in 2014 was a neck-and-neck affair with stablemate Tapestry. Her Racing Post Rating of 112 places her in the middle of the pack. Despite her impressive performance, Bracelet's career was short-lived, with only two wins in six starts. As a broodmare, she had limited success, producing a half-sister to Galileo but failing to make a significant impact.
7. Savethelastdance (2023)
Savethelastdance's 2023 campaign was a testament to her talent. With three wins from six starts, she dominated the Cheshire Oaks by 22 lengths, earning a high RPR of 114. Her performance in the Irish Oaks, however, was less impressive, finishing behind Soul Sister. Savethelastdance's career ended on a sour note, finishing fourth in the Yorkshire Oaks behind stablemate Warm Heart.
6. Seventh Heaven (2016)
Seventh Heaven's Irish Oaks win in 2016 was a surprise at 14-1 odds. Her RPR of 115 was her peak, but she struggled to maintain that form, winning only once more during her four-year-old season. Seventh Heaven's career was marked by inconsistency, with mixed results across her 14 starts.
5. Minnie Hauk (2025)
Minnie Hauk's 2025 campaign was a triple threat, winning the Oaks, Irish Oaks, and Yorkshire Oaks. However, her Irish Oaks victory earned her the lowest RPR of 116. Despite her success, Minnie Hauk narrowly missed the Arc, finishing second to Daryz. Her 2026 season has shown promise, with a Group 2 win and a runner-up finish in the Prince of Wales's Stakes.
4. Moonstone (2008)
Moonstone's Irish Oaks win in 2008 was a close call, edging out Ice Queen by a short head. Her RPR of 118 places her fourth on the list. Moonstone's career was short-lived, with only one win from six starts. However, her broodmare career was more successful, producing US Army Ranger, who achieved an impressive RPR of 122.
3. Snowfall (2021)
Snowfall's 2021 campaign was a treble-winning feat, completing the Oaks, Irish Oaks, and Yorkshire Oaks. Her Irish Oaks victory earned her an RPR of 119, her third-highest. Unfortunately, Snowfall's career was cut short due to a fatal injury in January 2022.
2. Alexandrova (2006)
Alexandrova's 2006 Irish Oaks win was a part of a Group 1 hat-trick, including the Oaks and Yorkshire Oaks. Her RPR of 121 places her second on the list. Alexandrova's performance at the Curragh was a testament to her skill, finishing four lengths ahead of Scottish Stage.
1. Peeping Fawn (2007)
Peeping Fawn's 2007 Irish Oaks win was a statement of dominance. Her RPR of 123 was the highest on the list, and she reversed the Epsom form with Oaks winner Light Shift. Peeping Fawn's career was a triumph, with two more Group 1 wins in the Nassau Stakes and Yorkshire Oaks. Her legacy as a champion is undeniable.
In conclusion, each of Aidan O'Brien's Irish Oaks winners has a unique story. While some had short careers, others left a lasting impact on the sport. Peeping Fawn stands out as the ultimate champion, with a flawless record and an unparalleled RPR. As O'Brien continues to dominate, the question remains: can anyone dethrone his record?
