2018 Road to the Kentucky Oaks

The Kentucky Oaks, affectionately known as the "Lilies for the Fillies," is America's premier showcase for 3-year-old Thoroughbred fillies and a highlight of the Triple Tiara series. Founded in 1875 by Colonel M. Lewis Clark—the same visionary behind the Kentucky Derby—this 1⅛-mile race takes place annually on the Friday before the Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, drawing passionate crowds for its blend of speed, grace, and empowerment.

How the Oaks Has Evolved

From its origins as a supporting event to the Derby with a modest $1,000 purse and smaller fields, the Kentucky Oaks has blossomed into a standalone spectacle. The introduction of the "Road to the Kentucky Oaks" points system in 2013 revolutionized qualification, mirroring the Derby's model to spotlight top fillies through prep races. The field has been capped at 14 starters since 2013 (with up to four also-eligibles), the purse has surged to $1.5 million by 2025, and initiatives like the "Pink Out" for women's health have amplified its cultural impact. Enhanced primetime broadcasting in 2026 further signals its growing prominence, attracting record audiences while honoring its feminine legacy.

The field is limited to 14 starters who have earned points on the Road to the Kentucky Oaks for the chance to draw for post positions, ensuring a fiercely competitive lineup of rising stars.

Iconic Traditions

• Lilies for the Fillies: Since 1966, the winner is draped in a garland of 119 white lilies symbolizing purity and strength.
• Pink Out: Fans flood the stands in pink attire to raise awareness for breast and ovarian cancer, with the Survivors Parade honoring fighters and survivors.
• Hats & Fashion: A runway of feminine flair, with sundresses, bold hats, and pink accents celebrating style and sisterhood.
• Survivors Parade: A moving procession of cancer warriors, underscoring the Oaks' commitment to women's health philanthropy.
• The Walkover: Jockeys in vibrant silks escort their charges to the gate amid cheers, evoking the event's empowering spirit.

Fun Facts

• The Oaks purse rivals major stakes worldwide, with total handle exceeding $100 million on race day.
• Eight Oaks winners have later claimed the Breeders' Cup Distaff, bridging fillies' paths to Hall of Fame glory.
• The shortest Oaks was 1 mile in 1896; today's distance tests stamina on Churchill's famed dirt oval.

Last 10 Kentucky Oaks Winners