The late Galileo’s influence was on full display at Doncaster on Saturday as Ballydoyle colts Jan Brueghel (3c Galileo – Devoted To You, by Danehill Dancer) and Illinois (Galileo) battled to a thrilling finish in the St Leger.

Both colts, joint-favorites for the race, stayed close to their stablemate Grosvenor Square (Galileo) early on. Illinois took the lead after the three-furlong marker, but Jan Brueghel, ridden by Sean Leven, responded with a late surge 100 yards from the finish to win by a neck. Illinois finished second, a length and a half ahead of Deira Mile (Camelot), who took third.

“I believe he's a future Gold Cup horse,” said Leven. “Don’t be surprised if he steps up next year. He handled that really well.”

Aidan O’Brien, speaking from Leopardstown, added, “Both are excellent horses, and there’s hardly anything between them. Sean gave Jan Brueghel a fantastic ride, and we knew he had improved significantly since Goodwood. Either could head to Melbourne – they’re both top-class stayers.”

Derrick Smith, co-owner of the two colts alongside Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Westerberg, expressed his delight. “It’s remarkable – he’s unbeaten and only made his debut on May 25. He’s still very green and has more to come. Illinois lost nothing in defeat, and if the pace had been quicker, he might’ve won. We’re thrilled with the one-two finish.”

Jan Brueghel, bred by Barronstown Stud, is a full-brother to Irish Derby winner Sovereign (Galileo) and Irish St Leger third Dawn Rising (Galileo). He becomes the fourth St Leger winner sired by Galileo, who now boasts 101 Group 1 winners. 

Image: Coolmore