The Epsom Downs Racecourse played host to a defining moment in the 2026 flat racing season this past Friday, as Thundering On delivered a masterful performance to secure victory in the Group 1 Betfred Oaks. For Donegal-born jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle, the result marked a significant career milestone, representing his first-ever British Classic success. The victory not only cemented his growing reputation on the international stage but also highlighted the tactical acumen of trainer Joseph O’Brien, who added another prestigious trophy to his stable’s growing collection.
The race, which serves as the second English classic of the season, saw a competitive field of nine fillies take to the starting stalls. Among the contenders were four runners representing the O’Brien training dynasty, with Joseph O’Brien saddling one and his father, Aidan O’Brien, responsible for three. Despite the stiff competition and the presence of high-profile favorites, Thundering On—a chestnut daughter of Frankel and the mare Thundering Nights—showed remarkable poise, overcoming a position toward the rear of the field to dominate in the final stages of the one-mile-four-furlong contest.
Wow. Wow. Wow! 𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐧 brilliantly wins the Betfred Oaks at Epsom pic.twitter.com/3ev8KpXbjH — Racing TV (@RacingTV) June 5, 2026
Tactical Precision at Epsom
The race dynamics were set early by Sugar Island, ridden by Ronan Whelan, who established the initial pace, closely shadowed by the stable companion Cameo, under the guidance of Wayne Lordan. As the field navigated the challenging Epsom track, the betting public had placed their faith heavily in the favorite, Amelia Earhart. The filly, chosen by the renowned Ballydoyle stable jockey Ryan Moore, struggled to maintain momentum and ultimately finished in sixth place.
As the field turned into the home straight, the race opened up for those who had timed their run to perfection. Thundering On, having remained patient in the back half of the pack, moved to the stands’ side rail, finding a clear path to the finish. The challenge from the Juddmonte Farms-owned Legacy Link, ridden by Colin Keane, was significant; however, Thundering On proved too strong, crossing the line with a comfortable three-and-three-quarter length margin. Legacy Link claimed the runner-up spot, followed by the outsider Sugar Island in third.
”It was effortless.” @DylanBrowneMcM reflects upon Thundering On’s extraordinary victory in the @Betfred Oaks @EpsomRacecourse pic.twitter.com/1u4pB6lb2t — Racing TV (@RacingTV) June 5, 2026
A Milestone for the O’Brien Stable
This triumph serves as the second British Classic training success for Joseph O’Brien. His previous victory in the British Classic ranks came in the Betfred St Leger with Galileo Gold. The performance of Thundering On, bred from the stout lineage of Frankel, underscores the continued success of the O’Brien family in preparing elite-level thoroughbreds for the most demanding tests in British racing.
For Dylan Browne McMonagle, the day was the culmination of meticulous preparation and an ability to remain composed under the pressure of a major Group 1 event. His ride demonstrated a keen understanding of the Epsom track, allowing his mount to find the necessary acceleration when it mattered most. The result confirms McMonagle’s status as one of the most promising talents in the saddle, and the racing community will be closely watching his progress throughout the remainder of the 2026 campaign.
Looking Ahead
With the Betfred Oaks now in the record books, the focus of the racing world shifts toward the upcoming summer festivals and the remaining highlights of the flat racing calendar. Fans and analysts alike are already speculating on the future campaigns for both Thundering On and the runner-up, Legacy Link, as they look to build upon their performances at Epsom.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on this historic race in the comments section below. As the season progresses, we will continue to provide updates on the major fixtures across the European racing circuit. For those interested in the official results and future scheduling, please consult the Epsom Downs Racecourse portal for the latest race card information and upcoming event announcements.