Why plenty needs to go wrong for the Snowfall doubters to be proved right

Juddmonte Irish Oaks (Group 1) | 1m4f | 3yo fillies | ITV/RTV

The most surprising thing about the Juddmonte Irish Oaks is not the lack of opposition to Snowfall, or the fact she is as short as 1-4 with some firms; nor is it the absence of a British contender given the juicy prize has gone for export four times since 2015; or that only two trainers without the surname O'Brien are represented and both of their fillies are rank outsiders.

The most surprising thing of all is that Aidan O'Brien's last win in the race was way back in 2016, despite Magic Wand (2018) and Pink Dogwood (2019) being sent off as favourite since, and he is not the most successful trainer in the Classic's rich history either. That accolade belongs to Sir Michael Stoute for now but the Ballydoyle maestro can draw level on six winners if Snowfall seals the deal.