The Haiku Handicapper Presented By FanDuel Racing: 2023 Kentucky Oaks
Time to analyze the 2023 Kentucky Oaks field, in post position order, in the form of Haiku; a Japanese poem of 17 syllables, in three lines of five, seven, and five.
To read previous editions of The Haiku Handicapper, click here.
#1 - Mimi Kakushi
Showed grit in Meydan
Appreciate her patience
But class jump's daunting
#2 - The Alys Look
A big regression
When empty in Fair Grounds Oaks
Passing for this race
#3 - Gambling Girl
One-run deep closer
Still zeroing in her aim
Will gain placing late
#4 - Southlawn
Post-winter glow-up
But Churchill's her kryptonite
Which streak will be snapped?
#5 - Wonder Wheel
The 2-year-old champ
Has the body of a star
But her form's vanished
#6 - Botanical
Tapeta monster
Will have a say in fractions
Just not all of them
#7 - Wet Paint
Ruled over Oaklawn
Fits any profile you'd want
It all goes through her
Recommended for You
#8 - Promiseher America
The Gazelle shocker
Getting good in a hurry
Are there more levels?
#9 - And Tell Me Nolies
Just cross out Faiza
And she could be the top pick
Keep on your radar
#10 - Flying Connection
New Mexico's best
Couldn't hack it it Del Mar
She'll be through early
#11 - Defining Purpose
Big Ashland surprise
Was getting caught in short stretch
Regression foreseen
#12 - Dorth Vader
Figures into pace
Gave it up with more distance
Doubt she'll be there late
#13 - Affirmative Lady
Blossomed at Gulfstream
Not afraid of a class jump
A viable horse
#14 - Pretty Mischievous
Got caught, gets blinkers
Bred up and down for success
A threat, if focused
#15 AE - Taxed
Wet Paint's punching bag
She'll win something nice someday
But this isn't it
#16 AE - Julia Shining
Massive pedigree
Could have been a contender
But needs too much help
#17 AE - Hoosier Philly
Remember the buzz
When folks thought she could beat colts?
Not a concern now
Prediction
Nothing too splashy
Wet Paint's the best of her class
Fourteen, nine follow
