Landmark Leger win for local lad Egan

Curragh-born jockey David Egan rode his first Irish winner at that same racecourse today, registering a classic success on the Roger Varian-trained Eldar Eldarov (16/5) in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger.

The Dubawi-colt won the English St Leger for the pair last September and while just four lined up today, the 4/6 favourite for the race was outstanding stayer Kyprios which was returning from life-threatening injuries and having his first run since October.

Egan, on just his 13th ride in Ireland but with 491 UK winners, moved Eldar Elgarov to the front three furlongs out and while briefly pressed by Kyprios, whose fitness gave out, stayed stoutly to the line.

Kyprios put in a commendable effort to finish three and a half lengths third, while Dawn Rising finished third.

Delighted Egan, a nephew of former champion jockey Richard Hughes, commented “I had my first classic winner last year but to do it where I grew up at Osborne Lodge, which is at the five-furlong pole, means a lot. It's what dreams are made of and for all the team connected with the horse.

“He had a setback coming here for the St Leger Trial so the boss (Varian) played it safe and took him home to make sure he'd be alright and it was a blessing in disguise.

“He has a tendency to miss the break but but the race went so smooth, he was a race-fit horse today and was as tough as nails. I'm delighted he got his day.”

“My first main job was riding out for Willie McCreery, who I saw today, and he was a great man to learn from. I was probably spoiled riding out of my granddad (Dessie Hughes) on the yard's hack but Willie gave me a lot of experience and taught me a lot. This win means so much.”

Winning trainer Varian added “it’s a big thrill to win a race like the Irish St Leger and I’m delighted to get Eldar Eldarov winning again. He’s ran some great races in defeat this year and it’s nice to win two Legers.

“He’s entered up in France on Arc weekend and there is the two-mile race at Ascot - we might consider Ascot.

“He seems to be really best at a mile and six furlongs but there aren’t too many of those races around. He deserves to run one more time this year and its most likely Ascot.

“David has been with us since he was 15 or 16 and he’s done really well. He’s come up through the ranks and he’s taken his opportunities. I’m delighted for him and he gave him a very straight forward uncomplicated ride today.”

Quotes from Alan Magee