Oaks Day is always one of the highlight days of the spring carnival at Flemington, blending top-class racing with fashion, social spectacle and an electric trackside atmosphere. This year looks no different. The track is expected to be in very good condition following on from some heavy weather early in the week, with fine weather forecast and the rail in its standard position, which means we should see true, fair racing without obvious bias.
From the first race through to the final event, racegoers and punters can expect a full card of competitive contests, including sprints for the younger types, mid-distance races for three-year-olds stepping up, and marquee features for fillies and staying types. The day will culminate in the Group 1 event of the day — the VRC Crown Oaks — which always draws plenty of public interest and betting volume.
Key Races of the Day
While the feature race for the fillies takes centre stage, there are a few others that warrant attention.
The earlier support races will include mid-distance events for three-year-olds and fillies aiming to step into staying form, which often provide pointers for future spring targets. Among these, fuelling up are races such as the lead-in staying contests and sprints that often reveal horses with upside who can upset on a bigger day.
The vibe on the day is as much social as it is racing: expect vibrant crowds, fashion displays and a lively atmosphere in the Birdcage and beyond. Fashion and style often get more media attention than the racing itself on Oaks Day.
Feature Race – VRC Crown Oaks (Group 1, 2500m)
The 2025 VRC Crown Oaks is the headline race of the day — a true test of stamina, class and staying potential for three-year-old fillies over the classic 2500 metre distance. Key factors for success in this race include the ability to stay out the trip, handle the Flemington track, settle well, and have a strong finishing kick.
Track & Race Dynamics
Given the expected “Good” surface and standard rail position, the race should be run on fair terms. At 2500 metres, pace is crucial: too slow and the race turns into a sprint home, too strong early and stayers can be caught on the line. Fillies who have shown good form stepping up in distance, especially from 1800m to 2000m, are likely candidates.
Key Contenders
– Getta Good Feeling: Appears in early markets as the favourite, but there’s no fat in the price at all. Has a strong record of top 3 finishes in each of her six starts, and gave them a galloping lesson in the Wakeful. If she brings that form again, then she’ll be hard to beat.
– After Summer: Trained by Dom Sutton, she comes into the Oaks off a win at 1800m and was placed in the Ethereal Stakes at 2000m which is the ideal progression that is suited to this race. Her pedigree suggests she wants the 2500m and the trainer didn’t contest the Wakeful Stakes, choosing to focus directly on this race. Offers good value.
– Others to watch include Just A Journey, Spicy Lu and Salty Pearl — all fillies who have shown staying form and may pose threats.
Our Tip: After Summer
While Getta Good Feeling commands respect, we’re going to shop for some value and back After Summer at each-way odds. Her build-up is formative and focused, she has shown she can handle increasing trips, and her pedigree supports the 2500m. If the tempo is controlled and she settles well, she has the staying ability to deliver at good odds.
Back After Summer Each-Way – $34.00/$6.50 at Dabble
Oaks Day at Flemington offers one of the most exciting and elegant race days of the spring carnival. With a feature race that tests staying fillies over 2500m, expect that combination of quality sport and vibrant social atmosphere. The Crown Oaks will demand stamina, timing, and finishing power — and by that measure, After Summer looks well placed. Make sure to keep an eye on final scratchings, barrier draws and track updates before placing bets.
