THE ANTEPOST ANGLE: ST LEGER

After pinpointing the first three home in the Ebor Handicap, John Arnold returns with two worth following in the final classic of the season as he dissects the St Leger. History:

The St Leger Stakes, inaugurated in 1776, is the oldest Classic horse race in the world, held annually at Doncaster Racecourse. Established by Colonel Anthony St Leger as a way to promote horse racing in the area, the race was originally planned as a local event but quickly gained popularity, becoming a significant fixture on the British racing calendar. Run over a distance of one mile and six furlongs, the St Leger is open to three-year-old thoroughbreds and has maintained its reputation as a crucial stepping stone for horses hoping to achieve greatness in the racing world.

Throughout its long history, the St Leger has witnessed countless memorable moments and legendary equine champions. Notable winners include the likes of Serpentine, who claimed victory in 2020, and Nijinsky, who completed the Triple Crown in 1970.

Trends:

Age- Race is for 3yo only 

Price- 7 of last 13 winners were fav/joint favourites, 11/13 winners were in the top 3 in the betting

Last Run- 9 of the last 13 winners won on their last run before the race, 9/13 winners placed on last run 

4/13 ran in the Great Voltigeur Stakes (York) on their last run, 2 of the 3 won, 1 placed

Course Form- 1/12 winners had 1 previous run at Doncaster, 1/12 winners had at least 1 previous win at the course

Distance Form- 7/13 winners had at least 1 run over 13 furlongs or further 

Rating- 11/13 winners were rated 109 or higher

Contenders:

The antepost market at the time of writing is dominated by Ballydoyle contenders. Both CHRISTMAS DAY and PIERRE BONNARD posted excellent efforts in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York recently chasing home Maltese Cross who has elected an Arc tilt and not this the final Flat classic of the season. Aiden O’Brien traditionally targets this classic and after the wet conditions in which CHRISTMAS DAY won the Epsom Derby this extra two furlongs plays further to his stamina and breeding sired by Camelot who came close to winning the flat triple crown at Doncaster. Outside of Ballydoyle another Irish raider in the shape Joseph O’Briens ENCELADUS could be the fly in the ointment as his wins at Royal Ascot  and Goodwood were both impressive and implied that this is on his radar. Sired by Sea the Stars if lining up will be a strong contender and the further the trip the stronger he gallops. This promises to be a strong staying test which will call upon the best of both stamina and speed. 

Selections

CHRISTMAS DAY (WIN)

ENCELADUS (E/W) written by John Arnold