Legatissimo on course for British Classic double

Legatissimo stretches clear of her QIPCO 1000 Guineas rivals. Image courtesy of racingfotos.com.

David Wachman’s Legatissimo will bid to become the first filly since Kazzia in 2002 to complete the 1000 Guineas and Epsom Oaks double after she was declared alongside 10 rivals for Friday’s Investec Oaks at Epsom Downs.

The three-year-old filly, who was a comfortable winner of the QIPCO 1000 Guineas last month, is to be ridden again by two-time 2015 British Classic-winning jockey, Ryan Moore.

Legatissimo faces the Musidora Stakes 1-2 Star of Seville and Together Forever, the Jessica Harrington-trained Jack Naylor and impressive Chester winner Diamondsandrubies in the prestigious contest.

Hotly-fancied for the contest is Sir Michael Stoute’s Crystal Zvezda, and her trainer believes she has what it takes to win the British Classic. 

He said: “Crystal Zvezda took her Newbury race well, and I have been pleased with her preparation.  I am very hopeful she will get the Oaks trip and handle Epsom.”

Full list of Investec oaks entries (11): Al Naamah, Bellajeu, Crystal Zvezda, Diamondsandrubies, Jack Naylor, Jazzi Top, Lady of Dubai, Legatissimo, Qualify, Star of Seville and Together Forever.