Leger hotpot on course for Classic glory

Red-hot favourite Rewilding features among 12 remaining entries for the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday.

The Godolphin-owned colt was a hugely impressive winner of the Great Voltigeur at York last month, a performance that propelled him to the head of the betting for the world’s oldest Classic.

Ed Dunlop’s dual Oaks winner Snow Fairy could bid to become the first filly to win the Leger since User Friendly in 1992, although the forecast rain could give connections a headache.

Aidan O’Brien has saddled Milan (2001), Brian Boru (2003) and Scorpion (2005) to win the Town Moor showpiece and he has left Bright Horizon, Flying Cross, Joshua Tree and Midas Touch in this year’s renewal.

Arctic Cosmos and Dandino are bother major contenders, while Corsica, Ted Spread, Theology and Total Command complete the possibles.

Mark Johnston’s Corsica is owned by one of Godolphin supremo Sheikh Mohammed’s sons and the plan is for him to ensure a strong gallop on Town Moor.

Godophin racing manager Simon Crisford said: “Corsica has every right to be in the race on his own merit, but his primary function is as a pacemaker for Rewilding.”

O’Brien has yet to finalise his running plans for the race, but Joshua Tree and Midas Touch are his main contenders at this stage.

“At the moment the plan is for Joshua Tree and Midas Touch to run,” said the Ballydoyle handler.

“Flying Cross is a possible to go to the Curragh (Irish St Leger), but not definitely. Bright Horizon is also a possible runner, but Joshua Tree and Midas Touch are the most likely runners at this stage.”