Saffie Osborne has made history by becoming the first female jockey to win one of British Flat racing’s five Classics. Her triumphant ride on Saturday in the St Leger has etched her name in the history books. Riding 11-1 shot Highwayman, Osborne overtook the competition in the closing stages to secure victory in the world’s oldest Classic Flat race. The race celebrated its 250th anniversary this year.

After Osborne finished ahead of rivals Enceladus and Amelia Earhart, she expressed her joy in a statement to the Racing Post. Osborne shared, “this win means the absolute world” and thanked Highwayman’s trainer, Joseph O’Brien.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been speechless in my life! I definitely didn’t have this on the bingo card,” Osborne said. “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 cliché, but my mum and my dad. It means the absolute world and I’m in shock.”

Osborne, age 24, has had an impressive season, marked by significant victories including three races at Ascot on King George day in July and two additional wins at Glorious Goodwood. Her win in the St Leger carries historic significance as a female jockey had never before claimed victory in any of the five British Classics. These prestigious races include the 2,000 Guineas, 1,000 Guineas, Epsom Oaks, and the Epsom Derby.

Osborne’s historic win is expected to bring close to £400,000 ($541,000) in prize money. Most of this is typically allocated to the horse’s owner, while the trainer, jockey, and stable staff share the remainder.

While Osborne is the first female jockey to win a British Classics race, Hollie Doyle, age 29, had previously made headlines by being the first woman to place in a British Classic at the Epsom Oaks in June 2022.