O’Brien delighted with Pink Dogwood

Trainer Aidan O’Brien was full of praise for Investec Oaks favourite Pink Dogwood as she made a winning return at Navan on Sunday (Pink Dogwood 4/1 to win the Investec Oaks).

The three-year-old proved too strong in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Salsabil Stakes at Navan, with O’Brien also entering two others from his stable.

Pink Dogwood finished second on two occasions at the Curragh last season, before then winning at Gowran Park before finishing fifth at Longchamp in the Group Prix Marcel Boussac at ParisLongchamp.

Ryan Moore did not have everything his own way during the 10 furlong content, with Noel Meade’s Encapsulation refusing to go down without a fight.

Pink Dogwood eventually got the better of the argument by half a length and O’Brien was very impressed by his charge.

The Irish handler said: “She was just ready to start off and you couldn’t be happier with her.

“The plan was always that we would go to the Oaks and whether she will have a run or not before then, I’m not sure.

“It’s possible, but not definite, that she will go straight there. She’s a lovely mover and would prefer better (ground), I would imagine.”

Pink Dogwood is the favourite for the race on May 11, with Iridessa and Sea of Faith next best in the market at 14/1. However, Iridessa is set to run in the 1000 Guineas for Aidan’s son Joseph.

Hermosa is 20/1 to pull off a shock win, while Sparkle Roll can be backed at odds of 16/1 to win the famous race.

Odds subject to change.