Pioneering Triumph: Saffie Osborne Makes History as Highwayman Wins the St Leger

Saffie Osborne etched her name into the annals of racing history at Doncaster, becoming the first female jockey to claim a British Classic victory by guiding Highwayman to success in the 250th running of the Betfred St Leger.

Given the prestigious spare ride on the progressing Vinnie Roe Stakes winner as a reward for an exceptional season, attention immediately shifted to the 24-year-old, who was elegantly advancing into contention as the field turned into the lengthy Doncaster straight.

As the Ballydoyle contingent appeared to be outpaced, Osborne urged her mount forward with a furlong remaining, leaving only Billy Loughnane aboard the 5-2 second-favourite Enceladus as a potential threat.

Highwayman (11-), however, proved unstoppable under an inspired Osborne, securing her place in 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 this was certainly not on my bingo card for the week.”

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

“My agent Tony Hind, I would be nowhere without him, and while it sounds clichéd, my mum, dad, and the entire family mean the absolute world to me. Crossing the line, I was in shock; I just can’t believe it and it doesn’t feel real.”

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

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