Kentucky Oaks Day Features Fillies at Churchill Downs

Kentucky Derby weekend at Churchill Downs kicks off with Friday's Kentucky Oaks, traditionally known as Ladies Day and featuring races mostly for fillies and mares. The weekend also includes undercard races that some consider 'chalky,' but seasoned bettors see value in longshots, especially in smaller fields. Notably, Fierceness, a favorite coming off major wins at Saratoga and the Breeders’ Cup Classic, returns for his first start as a 4-year-old but has faced disappointment at Churchill Downs before. In a small six-horse field, longshots like Katonah, who recently finished 10th in the Dubai World Cup but previously won at Santa Anita, are seen as viable plays. Bettors are advised to consider both Katonah and Locked for win, place, and exacta wagers, particularly given the expected fast pace that could benefit closers.