Doyle and Marquand booked for Oaks Clash
Eydon Cazoo Derby (G1)’s absence on Saturday means David Egan will not be up against his father John, who is on board El Habeebbut there will be family bragging rights in Cazoo Oaks (G1) June 3 as husband and wife Tom Marquand and Hollie Doyle make Classic history by joining each other.
On paper, Doyle seems to have the upper hand as his mount Nashwa who landed a listed race at Newbury recently, was the 4-1s favorite, but Joseph O’Brien was quick to book the Marquand for group 3 winner Naas Tranquil Lady who shot 14-1.
Doyle, who married Marquand in March, said: “Tom could be my husband, but when we’re in a race, it’s very competitive – we don’t give each other an inch.
“I think it’s weird and unique from the outside, but we’ve gotten used to it, it’s really not a big deal.
“Probably a lot of jokes and chatter on my part. I think Tom is probably sick of hearing from Nashwa in the last three or four weeks!”
Marquand, who won at Pertemps St. Leger (G1) in 2020 on Galileo Chrome for O’Brien, added: “We race against each other pretty much every day and since we race, so it makes no difference to me whether it’s group 1 or group 6.
“Hollie had a good chance and I had a good chance. I picked a good ride and she looked pretty dominant in Ireland when she won last time.
“She looks like she’s going to stay in good health and Joseph always sends prospects to England so hopefully she holds one of the big cards, and we’ve had a bit of luck together in St. . Leger a few years ago.”
Upjohn camped for it without having to take it far
Favourite Emily Upjohn William Hill is the only name on the lips of Oaks bookmakers, who report that more than 50% of bets on Classic are on the undefeated strong team.
Those closest to Tattersalls winner Musidora Stakes (G3) don’t see it that way and general coach John Gosden feels she’s been overreacted, while Jon Shack is full of respect for his opponents. .
“Most of them have won a listed pool or race, so it’s a matter of quality,” said Shack, who owns Emily Upjohn through Tactful Finance in partnership with Stuart Roden. top quality, but we hope to run well.” Retired friend from the city.