A Historic Achievement
Saffie Osborne has made history by becoming the first female jockey to win one of the five British Flat racing Classics. She achieved this milestone with a victory in the St Leger on Saturday. Riding the 11-1 shot Highwayman, Osborne pulled ahead of the competition in the closing stages, securing a win in the world’s oldest Classic Flat race, which marked its 250th anniversary.
Osborne’s Reaction
In her immediate response, Osborne expressed her delight to the Racing Post, saying that the win “means the absolute world” to her. She thanked Joseph O’Brien, Highwayman’s trainer, for his trust and support. Osborne added, “I don’t think I’ve ever been speechless in my life!” acknowledging the surprise and joy of her victory.
She emphasized the impact of this win on her life, mentioning the support of her agent Tony Hind and her parents. Osborne stated, “I know it sounds cliché, but my mum and my dad. It means the absolute world and I’m in shock.”
Paving the Way
Before this landmark achievement, no female jockey had won any of the five British Classics, which include the 2,000 Guineas, 1,000 Guineas, Epsom Oaks, and the Epsom Derby. Her victory in the St Leger is expected to bring her close to £400,000 ($541,000) in prize money. The majority of this sum usually goes to the horse’s owner, with the remainder shared among the trainer, jockey, and stable staff.
An Impressive Season
Osborne’s success in the St Leger adds to an already remarkable season. She had previously won three races at Ascot on King George day in July and two more at Glorious Goodwood.
While Osborne set the record as the first female jockey to win a British Classics race, Hollie Doyle was the first woman to place in a British Classic at the Epsom Oaks in June 2022.