The St Leger is never just a race when Coolmore send four – and this year's tactical brain-teaser is keeping me up at night

Aidan O'Brien: will, as often, have plenty of instructions to convey before the St LegerCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

I have got a soft spot for the St Leger. Not so much on a punting basis, but for the stories: like Lester on Commanche Run in 1984, ruining Darrel McHargue's tennis (vintage Piggott if you care to revisit it); Bollin Eric and his unfashionable sprint pedigree prevailing over the bluebloods in 2002; and was I the only one who begrudged the Queen her 'hats off' win with Dunfermline in 1977 at the expense of the wonderful Alleged?

These days, it is not a betting race for me – too many stamina doubts and their accompanying tactical complexities – but, as ever, we have the Aidan O'Brien team to inject plenty of interest.

Of course, the Coolmore contingent are again responsible for more than their fair share of runners – four of the 11 this time – for which we should be grateful, because, first, it shows the old race the respect it deserves, and, second, the Ballydoyle running plans are a fascinating brain-teaser regardless of the form book and well worth a betting market of their own.

Last updated 13:00, 11 September 2026