The Doncaster trained female jockey who made horse racing history
She became the first ever female winner of a British classic
A history-making female jockey who raced to victory in the 250th anniversary St Leger learned her skills in Doncaster.
Saffie Osborne became the first ever female winner of a British classic when she won Saturday’s big race at Town Moor aboard 11-1 shot Highwayman.
The 24-year-old demolished the field to cement her place in history - as she returned to the city where she learned to ride.
Saffie, who was born in Winchester, studied at Doncaster’s National Horseracing College in Rossington, where bosses were quick to pay tribute.
A spokesperson said: “History has been made at Doncaster!
“Saffie, who completed her Level 2 Apprenticeship through the National Horseracing College, has become the first female jockey to win a British Classic by claiming victory in the Group 1 St Leger, the world’s oldest classic, at Doncaster Racecourse.
“A fantastic achievement, congratulations, Saffie!”
Doncaster’s MPs also congratulated her on the victory.
Doncaster East and Isle of Axholme MP Labour MP Lee Pitcher said: “History was made right here in Doncaster.
“What made it even more special was that Saffie became the first female jockey to win a classic - and how wonderful is this - Saffie completed her Level 2 Apprenticeship through the National Horseracing College based in our constituency in Rossington.
“A fantastic achievement, congratulations, Saffie! A super proud day for all.”
Doncaster Central Labour MP Sally Jameson said: “Congratulations to Saffie Osborne who made history at the 250th St Leger as the first female jockey to win a British Classic with the winning cap presented by HRH The Princess Royal.
“On such a momentous day for Doncaster the St Leger race has made history once again.
“A huge thanks to all involved in making i so special particularly to all the staff at Doncaster Racecourse. Here’s to the next 250 years!”
The biggest Betfred St Leger Day crowd in 14 years saw her claim the coveted trophy and winner’s cap.
More than 30,000 racegoers descended on Doncaster Racecourse to watch the win for Osborne and trainer Joseph O’Brien.
The 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic saw a 16% increase in attendance compared to 2025, with this year’s Betfred St Leger Day welcoming its largest crowd since 2012.
Shortly after the race ended, HRH The Princess Royal presented an emotional Saffie with the iconic Betfred St Leger Trophy in the Parade Ring, surrounded by applause from the crowd.