The Kentucky Oaks 2026 returns on Friday, May 1, 2026, bringing one of the most prestigious races for three-year-old fillies to the iconic Churchill Downs. Known for its tradition, elegance, and the signature “Run for the Lilies,” this Grade 1 race is a major highlight of Derby weekend.
⏰ Kentucky Oaks 2026 Race Day Schedule (ET)
Race day kicks off with early access and a full slate of competitive races leading up to the main event.
📅 Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
🚪 Gates Open: 11:00 a.m. ET
🏁 First Race: 12:30 p.m. ET
Full Schedule:
| Event | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Gates Open | 11:00 AM |
| Race 1 | 12:30 PM |
| Race 2 | 1:00 PM |
| Race 3 | 1:30 PM |
| Race 4 | 2:00 PM |
| Race 5 | 2:35 PM |
| Race 6 | 3:12 PM |
| Race 7 | 3:48 PM |
| Race 8 | 4:30 PM |
| Race 9 | 5:12 PM |
| Race 10 | 6:01 PM |
| Race 11 | 6:56 PM |
| Race 12 | 7:40 PM |
| 🏆 Kentucky Oaks (Main Race) | 8:40 PM |
🎗️ Event Day Highlight – Survivors Parade
One of the most emotional and meaningful traditions of Oaks Day is the Survivors Parade, honoring breast and ovarian cancer survivors. This inspiring moment takes place between Race 9 and Race 10, as participants walk the historic track in celebration of strength, hope, and resilience.
🐎 Kentucky Oaks 2026 Horses & Post Positions
Here’s the official lineup of contenders, including trainers and jockeys for the 2026 edition:
| Post | Horse | Trainer | Jockey |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Explora | Bob Baffert | Flavien Prat |
| 2 | Zany | Todd Pletcher | Irad Ortiz Jr. |
| 3 | Search Party | Mark Casse | Cristian Torres |
| 4 | Counting Stars | Mark Casse | Francisco Arrieta |
| 5 | Meaning | Michael McCarthy | Juan Hernandez |
| 6 | My Miss Mo | Saffie Joseph Jr. | Micah Husbands |
| 7 | Dazzling Dame | Brittany Russell | Luis Saez |
| 8 | Scratched | — | — |
| 9 | Always a Runner | Chad Brown | Jose Ortiz |
| 10 | Prom Queen | Brad Cox | Javier Castellano |
| 11 | Percy’s Bar | Ben Colebrook | Luan Machado |
| 12 | Bella Ballerina | Brendan Walsh | Tyler Gaffalione |
| 13 | Pashmina | Rob Atras | Ramon Vazquez |
| 14 | Brooklyn Blonde | Michael McCarthy | Kazushi Kimura |
| 15 | Lovely Grey | Kelsey Danner | Dylan Davis |
📊 Kentucky Oaks 2026 Results (Live Updates)
🔄 Results will be updated here immediately after the race concludes.
- 🥇 Winner: To be announced
- 🥈 Runner-up: To be announced
- 🥉 Third Place: To be announced
- ⏱️ Winning Time: To be announced
Stay tuned for full finishing order, margins, and post-race analysis.
🔗 Related News & Updates📰 Kentucky Oaks 2026 Horses List: Full Post Positions, Trainers & Jockeys Guide
Explore the complete lineup of contenders for Kentucky Oaks 2026. This detailed preview includes post positions, top trainers, and elite jockey pairings to watch as the race approaches.
👉 Read Full Guide📰 Kentucky Oaks 2026 Full Race Day Schedule, Horses & Start Time
Get the full race-day experience with a complete schedule breakdown, start times, and key details about participating horses. Stay prepared for every moment leading up to the main event.
👉 View Full Schedule📌 Stay connected for live updates, expert insights, and full Kentucky Oaks 2026 results coverage.
📝 Final Thoughts
The Kentucky Oaks 2026 promises thrilling action, elite competition, and unforgettable traditions. From early races to the grand finale at 8:40 PM ET, fans can expect a full day of excitement at Churchill Downs. With a strong field of contenders and emotional moments like the Survivors Parade, Oaks Day continues to be one of the most cherished events in horse racing.