Scandinavia Wins Irish St Leger and Extends Remarkable Streak

Scandinavia confirmed his position at the top of the staying division with victory in the Irish St Leger at the Curragh on September 13.

The four year old, trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore, started as the clear favorite and delivered again over one mile and six furlongs. He beat stablemate Queenstown by two lengths, with Jan Brueghel another three quarters of a length back in third.

Scandinavia keeps winning

The Irish St Leger added another major prize to a season that has established Scandinavia as one of the standout stayers in Europe. His Curragh success followed victories in the Ascot Gold Cup and Goodwood Cup, giving him a rare sequence across several of the most important staying races on the calendar.

Sunday’s result was not simply another win for a short priced favorite. The field included experienced stayers such as Queenstown, Jan Brueghel and Trustyourinstinct, yet Scandinavia again found enough when the race was decided.

Queenstown completed a one two finish for Aidan O’Brien, while Jan Brueghel gave the stable a sweep of the first three places.

Another major result for Ryan Moore and Aidan O’Brien

Moore and O’Brien entered Irish Champions Festival weekend with several major opportunities, and Scandinavia delivered one of the most important results on the Sunday card. The race carried a winner’s share of €289,999 and attracted seven runners.

The victory also reinforced the value of the Curragh as a central stop for elite stayers. The Irish St Leger remains open to older horses, which allows established runners to return and build a longer record in the division.

What the result means

Scandinavia now leaves the Irish St Leger with another Group 1 success and an even stronger claim as the leading stayer of the season. His next target will depend on connections, so OTB Bet will wait for an official announcement before projecting his next start.

For background on the race, distance, history and recent winners, visit the OTB Bet Irish St Leger guide. You can also review the wider weekend in the Irish Champions Festival guide.