Jan Brueghel triumphs over Illinois in St Leger showdown
- Jan Brueghel won the St Leger race, defeating stablemate Illinois.
- This victory gave Aidan O’Brien his eighth success in the St Leger and Sean Levey his second British Classic win.
- Jan Brueghel's performance suggests he could be a future contender for prestigious races.
On Saturday, Jan Brueghel triumphed in a thrilling St Leger race, narrowly defeating his stablemate Illinois. This victory marked Aidan O’Brien’s eighth success in this prestigious event, further solidifying his reputation in horse racing. Jockey Sean Levey celebrated his second win in a British Classic, showcasing his skill and strategy during the race. Both horses are from the last full crop of foals sired by the legendary stallion Galileo, who passed away in 2021. Jan Brueghel, the 11-4 joint-favourite, demonstrated remarkable stamina and determination, managing to pull ahead in the final strides after a fierce competition with Illinois. Levey expressed confidence in Jan Brueghel’s potential, suggesting that the horse could be a contender for the Ascot Gold Cup in the future. This victory not only highlights Jan Brueghel’s unbeaten record after four starts but also positions him as a significant legacy of Galileo’s lineage. In a related event at Leopardstown, Economics, the 7-4 favourite, achieved a notable victory in the Irish Champion Stakes, edging out Auguste Rodin. This win marked Economics’ first success in Group One racing, further emphasizing the competitive nature of the racing scene. The race concluded with Economics finishing a neck ahead of Auguste Rodin, with Shin Emperor trailing in third. Overall, the weekend’s races showcased the exceptional talent of both Jan Brueghel and Economics, reinforcing the significance of their respective trainers and the impact of their lineage in the world of horse racing.