Kentucky Oaks field taking shape as entry day approaches

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Although there is little doubt the big favorite will be Untapable, the supporting cast for the 140th Kentucky Oaks is still taking shape as time dwindles toward entry day on Tuesday.

The connections of Room Service and Sweet Reason were debating whether to run their fillies in the May 2 Oaks, and if neither goes, Thank You Marylou and Empress of Midway (in that order) can make the lineup. The Oaks field is limited to 14, with an also-eligibles list of up to four more.

Wayne Catalano, trainer of Room Service, said a decision would be made with owner Gary West after the filly breezed Thursday morning. Catalano already has Aurelia’s Belle for the Oaks.

Leah Gyarmati, who trains Sweet Reason for Treadway Racing Stable, said she was leaning against running but would consult with the owners, with a final decision coming as early as Wednesday afternoon. The June 7 Acorn Stakes at her home track, Belmont Park, likely is the alternative.

As of Wednesday, these are the 12 fillies confirmed for the Grade 1, $1 million Oaks: Untapable, Sugar Shock, Fashion Plate, In Tune, My Miss Sophia, Rosalind, Got Lucky, Aurelia’s Belle, Ria Antonia, Kiss Moon, Fiftyshadesofgold, and Unbridled Forever.

Untapable, trained by Steve Asmussen for Winchell Thoroughbreds, is scheduled to have her final pre-race breeze this weekend.

Ria Antonia, trained by Bob Baffert, was the lone Oaks worker here Wednesday, when going five furlongs in 1:00.60.