Saffie Osborne becomes first woman to win a British Classic

Telegraph SportSat, September 12, 2026 at 3:18 PM UTC

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Saffie Osborne celebrates winning the Betfred St Leger - PA/Richard Sellers

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 (11-1) was not for reeling in under an inspired Osborne, who entered the record books on the 250th anniversary of the world’s oldest Classic.

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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.”

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