Lava Stream, the runner-up at Royal Ascot, has been added to the Juddmonte Irish Oaks at the Curragh on Saturday along with course winner Hanalia. Trained by David O'Meara, Lava Stream has shown significant improvement this season, winning at Doncaster and Goodwood before narrowly missing out on victory at Royal Ascot. Elwick Stud, the owners of Lava Stream, are hopeful of their filly's chances in the Classic race, having supplemented her for €50,000.
Hanalia, owned by the Aga Khan and trained by Johnny Murtagh, will be stepping up to a mile and a half for the first time after winning the Naas Oaks Trial. Port Fairy is the favourite for the Irish Oaks at 11-4, while Lava Stream and Hanalia are priced at 8-1 and 14-1 respectively. Other contenders in the race include Dare To Dream, Content, and War Chimes.
Trainer Paddy Twomey is optimistic about Purple Lily's chances in the race, despite the filly stepping into unknown territory over a mile and a half. With strong form leading up to the race, Twomey believes there is a good chance she will stay the distance. The Irish Oaks promises to be an exciting race, with a competitive field of fillies vying for victory.