Saffie Osborne made history as she became the first woman to ride a British Classic winner as Highwayman led home a Joseph O'Brien one-two in the St Leger at Doncaster.
Only being made aware she was riding in the race earlier this week, Osborne was partnered with the improving Vinnie Roe Stakes winner Highwayman following an exceptional season.
On the 250th anniversary of the world’s oldest Classic, Osborne wrote her name into the record books as 11/1 shout Highwayman held off the charge of Billy Loughnane and 5/2 second-favourite Enceladus.
7/4 favourite and Derby winner Christmas Day finished a disappointing ninth.
On her superb triumph, Osborne said: "I don't think I've ever been speechless in my life! I definitely didn't have this on the bingo card for this week. I didn't have a ride in the St Leger on Monday morning, let alone one with a chance.
"I can't thank Joseph and his team enough for putting their faith in me. This won't change Joseph's life, but it's changed mine. I'd be nowhere without my agent Tony Hind and, I know it sounds cliche, but my mum and my dad. It means the absolute world and I'm in shock."
Daughter of trainer and former top National Hunt jockey Jamie, Osborne has enjoyed a tremendous year which has now been capped off by victory in the St Leger.
The 24-year-old captained Ryan Moore and Dylan Browne McMonagle to victory in the Shergar Cup, and rode a treble at Ascot on King George day before securing a Glorious Goodwood double last month.
