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| Staff Writer |
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David Egan, originally from Curragh, won his first Irish race today at the same racecourse. He led the Roger Varian-trained Eldar Eldarov (16/5) to a classic victory in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger.
Last September, the Dubawi-colt won the English St Leger with Egan. Today, only four horses participated, with Kyprios, who was returning from life-threatening injuries and running for the first time since October, being the outstanding stayer with odds of 4/6.
After just his 13th ride in Ireland, Egan, who has 491 UK wins under his belt, took Eldar Elgarov to the front three furlongs from the finish line. Kyprios briefly pressed him, but his fitness gave out, and he remained strong to the finish line.
Kyprios put in a commendable effort to finish third, three and a half lengths behind, with Dawn Rising coming in second.
The Triumph Of Egan: A former Champion Jockey’s Dream Come True
Egan, Richard Hughes' nephew, a former champion jockey, was overjoyed and stated, "I won my first classic race 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 for all the horse's affiliated team."
“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 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.”