Godolphin delighted with favourite Blue Bunting ahead of bid for more Classic glory in the Investec Oaks at Epsom

GODOLPHIN are confident Blue Bunting can claim a second Classic success in tomorrow’s Investec Oaks at Epsom.

The Mahmood Al Zarooni-trained filly landed the QIPCO 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket and is a best-priced 2-1 favourite with most bookmakers at add the Epsom Classic tomorrow.

The Dynaformer filly has only been beaten once and was among the final 13 entries for the Fillies’ Classic.

Blue Bunting will bid to become the first to do the Guineas-Oaks double since Kazzia, who was also in the Godolphin blue, in 2002.

Al Zarooni said: “Blue Bunting is doing very well and she has improved since her victory at Newmarket.

“The most surprising thing about her winning the Guineas was that she coped so well with the ground.

“Her two wins last season came on a softer surface and we were a little concerned about how she would run on faster going, but Blue Bunting showed that she is a classy and versatile filly.

“It won’t be easy to win but she is a classy filly and has already won a Classic.

“She has the best jockey (Frankie Dettori) riding her and we have every chance of winning another big race.”

The Godolphin three-year-old could face her biggest threat from the other racing powerhouse, Coolmore. Aidan O’Brien’s team is headed by Cheshire Oaks winner Wonder Of Wonders, who is a 4-1 chance with William Hill, Coral, Paddy Power and Sportingbet. The Ballydoyle handler also has Irish 1,000 Guineas heroine Misty For Me into the race, alongside Why and Eirnin.

Also from Ireland is the Jessica Harrington-trained Siren’s Song, who broke her maiden tag at Navan in April.

Others in the line-up include the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Havant, who was sixth in the 1,000 Guineas; the Mick Channon duo – unbeaten Zain Al Boldan and Fork Handles; and John Gosden’s Izzi Top.

John Dunlop’s Beatrice Aurore, owned by former Abba star Benny Andersson, is another interesting candidate.

Share