In a breathtaking display of grit and tactical brilliance, 22-1 outsider Scandinavia, ridden by the superb Tom Marquand, stormed to a stunning victory in the final British Classic of the season, the St Leger Stakes at Doncaster.
The William Haggas-trained colt, largely overlooked in the betting, delivered a performance for the ages under a perfectly judged ride from Marquand. Settled comfortably in mid-division for much of the 1m6½f trip, the pair began to make their move turning into the long Doncaster straight.
As the hotly-tipped favourite, Continuous, tried to launch a challenge, it was Scandinavia who found an extra gear, powering through to hit the front inside the final furlong and holding on gamely to claim a famous win.
A Masterclass from Marquand
Tom Marquand's ride was nothing short of a masterclass in patience and timing. He never panicked despite the high stakes, allowing his mount to find his rhythm before asking the crucial question at the perfect moment.
"He's a horse with a tremendous engine," a jubilant Marquand said after the race. "We always believed he stayed this trip well and the plan was to be a bit handier today. He travelled beautifully and when I asked him to pick up, he really responded."
Haggas's Classic Brilliance
For trainer William Haggas, this victory adds another prestigious Classic to his remarkable CV. The master of Somerville Lodge has always held Scandinavia in high regard, and this result vindicates that faith spectacularly.
The win marks a significant payday for connections and proves once again that in horse racing, form and fortune can change in the blink of an eye. This result will undoubtedly shake up the staying division and sets Scandinavia up as a major contender for future top-tier staying contests.
