'Winx reborn': Short-priced favourite Espiona storms home on Oaks Day

Liam O'Loughlin

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'Winx reborn': Short-priced favourite Espiona storms home on Oaks Day image

Short-priced favourite Espiona could be the next breakout star of the track, after a dominant performance on Oaks Day at Flemington. 

Trained by Chris Waller, the three-year-old was going around at $1.35 odds in the Listed Desirable Stakes on Thursday afternoon, looking to back up its lovely debut performance at Warwick Farm a few weeks ago.

After taking out the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday with Verry Elleegant, star jockey James McDonald didn't have to move a muscle as the talented filly stormed home to win by over 6 lengths. 

Speaking to Racing.com after the win, McDonald was full of praise for Espiona and believes 'the world is her oyster' under the watchful eye of Waller.

“It looked as good as it felt I suppose," he said.

"She is a lovely filly – taken her time, could have easily won as a two-year-old but they’ve taken their time with her and they are going to reap rewards.

"She is a very good horse…she is very push button, she’s been well-educated and the world is going to be her oyster.

"It will take some effort for a horse to beat a performance like that over Cup week."


Social media was quick to react to the win from Espiona, with some even comparing her to the legendary Winx. 

 



 


 


 


 


 

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.