Saffie Osborne makes history at Doncaster with St Leger victory

Highwayman ridden by Saffie Osborne celebrates after winning the Betfred St Leger Stakes on day three of the Betfred St Leger Festival at Doncaster Racecourse. Pic: Richard Sellers/PA Wire.

Saffie Osborne made history as she became the first woman to ride the winner of a British Classic as Highwayman led home a Joseph O’Brien one-two in the Betfred St Leger.

Handed the plum spare ride on the improving Vinnie Roe Stakes winner as just reward for a fine season, the eye was drawn to the 24-year-old who was moving stylishly into contention as the runners entered the long Doncaster straight.

With the Ballydoyle contingent seemingly beaten off as Osborne sent her mount on with a furlong to run, the only danger appeared Billy Loughnane and 5-2 second-favourite Enceladus.

However, Highwayman (11-) was not for reeling in under an inspired Osborne who entered the record books on the 250th anniversary of the world’s oldest Classic.

Osborne told ITV Racing: “I don’t think I’ve ever been speechless in my life and I didn’t have this on the bingo card for this week.

“I didn’t have a ride in the race on Monday morning, let alone one with a chance, and I can’t thank so many people enough. Firstly Joseph and his team for putting their faith in me, it won’t change Joseph’s life, but it will change mine.

“My agent Tony Hind, I would be nowhere without him and I know it’s cliched but my mum, dad and whole family. This means the absolute world and as I crossed the line I was in shock. I just can’t believe it and it just doesn’t feel real.

“I was more forward than I anticipated, but he was travelling so well into it, I couldn’t believe it.”