Horse-by-horse guide to the 2018 St Leger at Doncaster
Published:
The 2018 St Leger from Doncaster is just around the corner. But just who is vying for the final Classic of the season?
We’ve previewed the 242nd edition of the famous old race with a horse-by-horse guide.
Kew Gardens
Won comfortably on his only start over 1m 6f when bolting up by over 4l in the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot. Handles all types of ground but beaten by Old Persian in the Great Voltigeur last time out.
Lah Ti Dar
Three victories from three to start her career, with a total winning distance of 22l.
Looks primed for the step-up in both class and trip, and will receive a filly’s allowance if she runs, but could still be entered into the Moyglare Blandford Stakes instead.
Old Persian
Soft ground could be a worry for the Godolphin colt, who battled hard to land the Great Voltigeur ahead of the fancied Cross Counter and Kew Gardens at York.
Hasn’t shown any signs that he wants the step-up, but if stays, will be a real danger.
Loxley
Stablemate to Old Persian but not guaranteed a run despite landing a Group 2 at Deauville last time out. Has won three of four this season and should handle the trip if he does go.
Southern France
Improving type who has put in two good runs over the distance without success. A runners-up berth behind Kew Gardens in the Queen’s Vase will hold Aidan O’Brien’s runner in good stead.
Dee Ex Bee
Below par since finishing second to Masar in the Epsom Derby. If he can rediscover that form for Mark Johnston, or if the rain comes, he could be on the premises.
Raymond Tusk
Comfortably held on both previous Group starts but battled well to land the Glasgow Stakes the time before last.
Maid Up
Andrew Balding’s charge has progressed nicely all season long and could go close here after being supplemented at a cost of £50,000.
Landed a first Group win in the March Stakes last time out and must be considered on each-way terms.
The Pentagon
Finished fifth in his last two starts in the Irish Derby and Great Voltigeur. Difficult to see the colt laying down a challenge here.
Proschema
Third behind Ghostwatch in the Melrose Handicap last month but has more to find if he’s to place in Group company for the first time.
Zabriskie
Winless since landing a maiden a year ago, and unlikely to be among the main contenders, despite hitting the frame in the Dante Stakes earlier this year.
Nelson
Failed to kick on from success in the Ballysax Stakes at the start of the season and likely to be used as a pacemaker for Kew Gardens on Saturday.
Click here for the latest St Leger odds.
All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication
