By Sports Equestrian Correspondent | Updated: 19 July 2025

Getty Images Sport
Victorious trio: Minnie Hauk (center) surges past rivals at The Curragh

In a display of tactical brilliance, Minnie Hauk cemented her status as Europe's premier three-year-old filly with a gutsy victory in the €500,000 Irish Oaks, completing a rare Classic double following her Epsom Oaks triumph six weeks earlier.

Race Breakdown:

• Strategic Pacing: Ryan Moore positioned the 2-11 favorite third behind pacemaker Island Hopping
• Critical Move: Made decisive ground in final 400m to overtake Wemightakedlongway (7-2)
• Winning Margin: 1¼ lengths clear at the line
• Record Extended: Aidan O'Brien's 8th Irish Oaks victory

Post-Race Analysis:

"This filly possesses extraordinary acceleration," Moore told RTE Sport. "When we asked for maximum effort at the 2-furlong marker, she responded like the champion she's becoming."

Historic Context:

• First Classic double winner since Enable (2017)
• Frankel-sired horses now claim 14 Group 1 wins this season
• O'Brien stable records 23rd European Classic victory

Future Prospects:

• Potential targets include:
  • Yorkshire Oaks (August)
  • Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (October)
  • Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (November)

Expert Commentary:

"Minnie Hauk's ability to conserve energy and strike late makes her a nightmare for rivals. This performance suggests she could dominate middle-distance races for years." - Racing Post Analysis Team