So, floating away in the Red Sea is this industrial city called Oxagon, which seems to be all about looking ahead to the future. And guess what? It’s horse namesake might be a bit underrated if he performs well in the big juvenile event at Newmarket today. Oisin Murphy could really make a statement for the 2,000 Guineas with a win in the Dewhurst on Saturday.
Oxagon is currently trading at 50-1 for next year’s 2,000 Guineas, but those odds might just drop if he makes a splash in today’s Group 1 Darley Dewhurst Stakes. This two-year-old event has been won by champions like City of Troy, Frankel, Zafonic, Generous, and El Gran Senor. It’s definitely going to be a tough race, especially with strong contenders like the unbeaten Zavateri and Gstaad, along with Godolphin’s Distant Storm.
Then there’s Alparslan, who hasn’t tasted defeat yet and showed great form at the Curragh, as well as Italy and Gewan with their classy performances. Speaking of Gewan, he was the favorite in the Group 2 Champagne Stakes at Doncaster but ended up finishing fourth. Oxagon came second in that race, and even though there were some disappointments, the form now looks solid.
I personally think Oxagon is undervalued for the upcoming race and the Guineas. There’s a good chance he could give champion jockey Oisin Murphy his first Dewhurst victory. It’s worth mentioning that John Gosden, now partnered with his son Thady, previously won the Dewhurst with Too Darn Hot in 2018.
Moving on to the Club Godolphin Cesarewitch Handicap, it’s a big race that spans over two counties and the draw is crucial. Last year, Alphonse le Grande caused an upset at 33-1, and this time he’s up against Manxman again. I have a feeling Manxman might turn the tables this time around, especially after his recent third-place finish at Goodwood.
The Cesarewitch is always a tricky race, but with contenders like Reverend Hubert, Bunting, Hipop de Loire, and the veteran Winter Fog, it’s bound to be an exciting event. Willie Mullins, known for his success in these races, has a strong lineup as well.
All in all, it’s shaping up to be a thrilling day of racing with some unexpected outcomes. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like there could be a few surprises in store. Yeeehaaa! Remember, gamble responsibly and enjoy the thrill of the races!
