Another top day on the Knavesmire

York's Ebor meeting continues on the Knavesmire today when the highlight is the Darley Yorkshire Oaks.

Despite the race title, the contest is open to fillies and mares aged three and above, and has attracted another high-quality cast. Among them is Harlequeen, who has finished third in the Oaks at Epsom and the Curragh this year for Mick Channon's stable.

Channon also saddles Qatar Racing's only runner on today's card, Opal Tiara, who runs in a fillies' handicap (16.55). Owned in partnership with Sweet Racing, Opal Tiara won a Listed race at Carlisle in May, and then ran well enough in the Gr.3 L'Ormarins Queens Plate at the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Although only seventh of the 11 runners she was little more than six lengths behind the winner.

Channon says of Opal Tiara: ‚"She has been thriving at home, and I believe this race represents a really good opportunity for her. We don't have the greatest draw, but hopefully Oisin [Murphy] will be able to overcome that.‚"

Photo: Laurence Squire