

SARGA.CO – In the fast-paced world of horse racing, three terms frequently dominate championship headlines: Derby, Oaks, and Stakes. While all three represent prestigious events, they differ significantly in terms of eligibility, rules, and legacy. Let’s break them down one by one.
A Derby is a classic race typically reserved for three-year-old colts, though fillies are sometimes allowed to compete. It’s widely seen as a coming-of-age test for young racehorses and often marks the first leg of the Triple Crown in many countries.
Notable examples include the Kentucky Derby in the U.S. (part of the American Triple Crown), the Japanese Derby (Tokyo Yūshun), and the Indonesia Derby for local three-year-olds.
Key traits of a Derby:
Oaks: The Queens’ Stage
If the Derby belongs to colts, the Oaks is the domain of three-year-old fillies. The name comes from the historic Epsom Oaks in England, first held in 1779 and still one of the most prestigious races for fillies. Other notable races include the Yūshun Himba (Japanese Oaks).
Key traits of an Oaks:
Stakes: Prestige Races for All Ages
The term Stakes refers broadly to high-stakes races featuring strong competition and significant prize money. These races are not restricted to a single age group and may be open to both colts and fillies, depending on the event.
Famous examples include the Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the U.S. Triple Crown, and Kikuka Shō, the final leg of Japan’s Triple Crown series, stretching 3,000 meters.
Key traits of Stakes races:
Different Crowns, One Common Goal
Though their names and conditions differ, Derby, Oaks, and Stakes races share one defining purpose: to spotlight the finest racehorses of each generation.
These events aren’t just races—they are stepping stones to immortality for horses, jockeys, and owners alike.
So next time you glance at the racing calendar, take a closer look—you might just be witnessing the rise of the next legend.
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