Septimus makes it Classic clean sweep for O'Brien
14th September 2008
Septimus (5h Sadler's Wells-Caladira, by Darshaan) ran away with the G1 Irish Field St Leger at the Curragh on Saturday to give trainer Aidan O’Brien an historic clean sweep in this season’s five Irish Classics.
The 1/3 chance Septimus came home 13 lengths clear of his stablemate New Zealand (3c Galileo-Worlds Apart, by Darshaan) to take the Classic in effortless fashion under Seamie Heffernan.
"You're always nervous when they go off at such short odds, but he did it nicely," said owner Derrick Smith. "There is no end to Aidan's talents and achievements and it is a terrific effort all round.
"Aidan has always had the Melbourne Cup on the agenda. There are quarantine issues to sort out a bit, but it's a possibility if he comes out of the race well."
Aidan O’Brien’s wife Anne-Marie added: "I'm so happy for everyone associated with Ballydoyle and we've been so lucky that the horses have stayed sound. Septimus got his opportunity today and I'm really thrilled. New Zealand also ran a great race to be second."
