GODOLPHIN WIN THE OAKS

Willowy winning at Flemington with jockey Jye McNeil

Damien Oliver rode Godolphin runner Willowy to victory in the Kennedy Oaks on Thursday after he had to produce his best to overcome Doucer later in a thrilling finish.

The win meant it was a record equaling seventh win in the Oaks for Oliver. 

In Williowy, Godolphin have been able to prove once again they’re continuing to produce great talent down under each year and it could have been one of the most successful 3 year old seasons ever for the Royal Blue had Anamoe won the Cox Plate just a few weeks earlier. 

Willowy’s rise to Oaks winner has been somewhat meteoric after winning a Newcastle maiden on October 12th before winning the Group 2 Wakeful Stakes  just four days ago and now winning the Group 1 Kennedy Oaks.

“She just kept improving all the way and enough for us to have a crack at the Wakeful,” Godolphin trainer James Cummings said.

“We didn’t nominate many for the Oaks, we had her earmarked as one that really could.”

Jockey Oliver was understandably pleased to win his 7th Oaks and equal Bobby Lewis’s record. 

“It’s a pretty proud moment,” Oliver said.

“George Moore, Roy Higgins, they’re iconic figures in our sport and it’s quite amazing to be sharing records with those guys. Bobbie Lewis as well.

“I’m pretty proud of the record I have. It’s been a lot of work and a lot of fun but a fantastic journey over the years but a lot of good people around to help us too.”

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