What is the St Leger Stakes?

What is the St Leger Stakes and how does it fit into the racing calendar?

The St Leger Stakes, inaugurated in 1776, is the oldest of Britain’s five Classic flat races and the final leg of the English Triple Crown (following the 2,000 Guineas and the Derby).

Run over approximately 1 mile 6 furlongs and 115 yards at Doncaster Racecourse each September, it is both a supreme test of stamina and a celebrated autumn fixture.

What is the history and heritage of the St Leger?

Founded by Lieutenant Colonel Anthony St Leger, the first race offered a sweepstake of 25 guineas, and the inaugural winner was “Allabaculia,” an unnamed filly later given that moniker. The race found its lasting home on Town Moor at Doncaster in 1778.

Throughout its history, the St Leger has witnessed remarkable moments: from Champion, the first Derby–St Leger double (1800), to legendary Triple Crown victories by West Australian (1853), Ormonde (1886), and Nijinsky (1970). The record margin remains Never Say Die’s 12-length triumph in 1954.

Who are some famous winners, jockeys, and trainers?

St Leger has seen some true equestrian legends throughout its illustrious history: the famous Nijinsky victory of 1970, Oh So Sharp completed the Triple Crown in 1985, and underdogs like Encke, who denied Camelot’s Triple Crown in 2012. Other historic records include trainer John Scott claiming 16 wins from 1827–1862, while his brother jockey Bill Scott notched 9 victories. Most recently, renowned Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien has celebrated victory four times since 2017.

What are the features of the St Leger Festival weekend?

More than a single race, the four-day St Leger Festival blends sport, style, and community.

• Thursday opens with Ladies’ Day, the treasured glamourous event renowned for celebrating fashion and femininity, with exclusive prizes for best-dressed attendees.

• Friday features the historic Doncaster Cup - the oldest race still run under official horse racing rules, pre-dating St Leger Stakes by a full decade.

• Saturday hosts the main St Leger Stakes, one of the most prestigious races in the calendar, attracting the most celebrated horses, jockeys and trainers in the sport.

• Sunday wraps up with family-friendly entertainment and the Leger Legends charity race, where retired jockeys race for charity.

What makes the St Leger so significant, yet distinct from other Classics?

Beyond its rich history, steeped in tradition and celebration of community, St Leger basks in its late-season scheduling - this means horses are more mature and at their peak of performance, creating a level playing field and a fairer, clearer competition, but with greater tension, atmosphere and overall excitement for the furlongs. Its length demands stamina and discipline, making it a unique test of high impact endurance for both horse and jockey.

What about fashion and style at the Festival?

While less formal than Royal Ascot, the St Leger Festival is no less stylish. Ladies’ Day is a premier fashion moment in the North, with show-stopping dresses, bold headpieces, with colour standing out amongst the crowd. A polished gentlemanly attire is expected for male attendees, with smart outfits put together to balance heritage and modern flair.

Summary

From its 1776 origins to its place as a mainstay in the autumn racing calendar, the St Leger Festival is rich in history, drama, style, and community spirit. It is a rare blend of sporting prestige and sartorial flair, unfolding across four action-packed days in the Yorkshire sun.

At Robinsons of Bawtry, we celebrate this union of heritage and elegance. If you're looking for fashion inspiration for race day - whether a structured dress or tailored ensemble - our latest collections are crafted to match the refinement and timelessness the St Leger embodies.