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.”
