The 2026 Kentucky Oaks is set for May 1, 2026, at 8:40 p.m. ET, featuring a competitive field of 14 three-year-old fillies vying for a purse of $1.5 million at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky.
As the race day approaches, the odds reflect a tightly contested event. Currently, Zany stands as the 4-1 favorite. Percy’s Bar follows closely at 6-1, while Prom Queen boasts odds of 8-1 and has never finished lower than second in her career.
With such a varied lineup, the unpredictability of the race becomes apparent. Jody Demling notes, “I just like others in here better,” hinting at the competitive nature of the field. This level of competition is not unusual for the Oaks, which is strictly for fillies—unlike its male counterpart, the Kentucky Derby.
Fans can expect thrilling coverage on NBC starting at 8 p.m. ET on race day. The Oaks serves as the culmination of a day filled with excitement—it’s the final race out of 13 scheduled that day.
In addition to Zany and Percy’s Bar, other notable contenders include Always a Runner and Bella Ballerina. Each horse brings its own strengths to this prestigious event.
The stakes are high not just for the horses but also for their trainers. Bob Baffert and Brad Cox are among those preparing their fillies for what could be a defining moment in their careers.
As anticipation builds around this year’s Oaks, it’s clear that experts and fans alike are eager to see how these fillies will perform under pressure. With $750,000 going to the winner, every stride counts.
The Kentucky Oaks continues to be a significant event in horse racing history—an opportunity for fillies to shine on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
