Did Scandinavia Propel O'Brien to St Leger Glory?

Aidan O'Brien made history at the St Leger as Scandinavia secured a thrilling victory, marking the trainer's ninth win in this prestigious race. With this win, O'Brien became the first trainer to achieve three consecutive St Leger wins, setting a remarkable record in the event's 249-year history.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Aidan O'Brien became the first trainer to win the St Leger three times in a row.
• Scandinavia won by a narrow margin of a neck over Rahiebb.
• Tom Marquand's victory comes after a quieter St Leger win in 2020 due to Covid restrictions.
• Lambourn, the Derby winner, finished fourth despite being a strong contender.
• Scandinavia's win follows previous victories in the Bahrain Trophy and Goodwood.

The Historic St Leger Victory

The St Leger, renowned as the world's oldest Classic horse race, saw a dramatic finish this year, with Aidan O'Brien's Scandinavia clinching victory at Doncaster. The race continues to be a significant event in the horse racing calendar, showcasing the finest horses and trainers in the sport.

Aidan O'Brien's Unprecedented Achievement

With Scandinavia's victory, Aidan O'Brien has carved a unique place in St Leger history. This is particularly notable as he achieved three consecutive wins, with Scandinavia following Jan Brueghel in 2022 and Continuous in 2023. O'Brien's training prowess is evident, as he has now secured a total of nine St Leger wins, further solidifying his reputation as one of the leading trainers in the UK and internationally.

Tom Marquand's Sweet Triumph

Jockey Tom Marquand played a crucial role in Scandinavia's victory, skillfully navigating the horse to secure the win. Marquand expressed his joy at winning in front of a lively crowd, contrasting it with his previous St Leger win during the Covid-19 pandemic when the atmosphere was subdued. "It's nice winning a St Leger with a few people here as well - it was a bit quiet last time," he stated, reflecting on the significance of the moment.

Race Dynamics and Competition

The race unfolded with intense competition among the horses, particularly between Scandinavia and Rahiebb, who made a late charge. The final moments of the race were electric, with Scandinavia holding on to win by a mere neck. O'Brien’s other horse, Stay True, finished in third place, while Lambourn, the much-anticipated Derby winner, faltered to finish fourth.

Performance of Scandinavia

Scandinavia's performance stood out, especially given his recent successes. The horse had previously won the Bahrain Trophy and a race at Goodwood, demonstrating consistent form leading up to the St Leger. Marquand praised Scandinavia's temperament, stating, "He has got the most beautiful temperament. He is just so straightforward and was so tough there." This resilience proved vital in a race where the ground conditions were challenging.

Lambourn's Disappointing Run

Lambourn entered the St Leger as a strong contender after winning both the Derby and Irish Derby, making him the first Derby winner to compete in the St Leger since Camelot in 2012. However, despite heavy backing and high expectations, Lambourn's performance fell short, finishing in fourth place. This outcome raises questions about the pressures faced by Derby winners in subsequent races, particularly in the St Leger.

The Importance of the St Leger

The St Leger holds a prestigious position in the horse racing calendar, often regarded as a culmination of the Flat racing season. It not only showcases top-tier horses but also highlights the skills of trainers and jockeys alike. The race's rich history and tradition add to its allure, making victories like O'Brien's even more significant.

What’s Next for Scandinavia and O'Brien?

With Scandinavia’s impressive victory, the horse's future looks bright. O'Brien’s ability to train horses to peak performance at crucial moments suggests that Scandinavia may be in line for further accolades in the upcoming racing seasons. As the Flat racing season concludes, attention will shift to the jumps season, but the legacy of this year's St Leger will undoubtedly linger.

Conclusion

Aidan O'Brien's achievement at the St Leger is a testament to his expertise and dedication in the world of horse racing. Scandinavia's victory not only adds another trophy to O'Brien's collection but also highlights the ever-evolving nature of competition in the sport. As fans and enthusiasts look forward to future races, the St Leger will remain a focal point of discussion and admiration.

With the excitement of this year’s race, what other records might O'Brien break in the future? The anticipation for the next racing season is palpable. #HorseRacing #StLeger #AidanOBrien

FAQs

What is the St Leger?

The St Leger is the oldest Classic horse race in the world, first held in 1776. It is part of the British Flat racing calendar and typically takes place in September at Doncaster.

Who won the St Leger in 2023?

Scandinavia, trained by Aidan O'Brien, won the St Leger in 2023, marking O'Brien's ninth victory in the race.

What is Aidan O'Brien's record in the St Leger?

Aidan O'Brien has won the St Leger nine times, making him the trainer with the most victories in the race's history.

Who rode Scandinavia in the St Leger?

Jockey Tom Marquand rode Scandinavia to victory in the 2023 St Leger.

What is the significance of the St Leger in horse racing?

The St Leger is significant as it is one of the five Classics in British horse racing, representing the peak of Flat racing and often influencing the careers of horses and trainers.