Aidan O’Brien Colts Dominate Betfred St Leger Betting
The Betfred St Leger at Doncaster is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with Aidan O’Brien’s talented colts leading the betting market. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each top contender and see who appeals most at the current odds.
Sky Bet Odds:
- Illinois: 5/2
- Jan Brueghel: 4/1
- Los Angeles: 5/1
- Grosvenor Square: 11/2
Illinois (Timeform Rating: 119)
Pros: This sizeable colt has shown immense potential, placing behind the highly-regarded Los Angeles in a Group 1 race as a juvenile. He has steadily improved over longer trips as a three-year-old, winning the Group 2 Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes at York last week. With proven stamina for the St Leger distance and the likely presence of Ryan Moore in the saddle, Illinois looks a dependable option.
Cons: At 5/2, the market has already priced in many of Illinois’ strengths. While he has been consistent this season, he is still seeking a maiden Group 1 success, which could give pause to some punters.
Jan Brueghel (Timeform Rating: 116p)
Pros: An unbeaten Galileo colt, Jan Brueghel has steadily progressed through the ranks, winning the Group 3 Gordon Stakes at Goodwood. His strong-finishing victory at the Curragh and his gutsy performance in the Gordon Stakes suggest he has the stamina to handle the Leger’s demanding 1 mile, 6 furlongs trip.
Cons: Jan Brueghel may need to conserve more energy pre-race, as he has shown a tendency to get a bit excited in the preliminaries. The Gordon Stakes, while a recognized trial, hasn’t produced a Leger winner since 2008, so Jan Brueghel will be looking to break that trend.
Los Angeles (Timeform Rating: 121p)
Pros: A fine-looking Camelot colt, Los Angeles was an unbeaten Group 1 winner at two and finished a gallant third in the Epsom Derby before bouncing back to win the Irish Derby. His gritty performance to beat Illinois in the Great Voltigeur showcased his class and stamina.
Cons: The uncertainty surrounding Los Angeles’ participation in the St Leger is a major stumbling block. With connections seemingly leaning towards the Irish Champion Stakes and a possible tilt at the Arc, he may not make it to Doncaster, making him a risky betting proposition at this stage.
Grosvenor Square (Timeform Rating: 118)
Pros: This Galileo colt has already proven his staying power, chasing home the classy Tower Of London in the Curragh Cup before his dominant 20-length victory in the Irish St. Leger Trial. His proven affinity for soft ground could be a significant advantage if the weather plays a role on the day.
Cons: Grosvenor Square may be more likely to take the easier option of the Irish St. Leger, rather than facing the might of his stablemates at Doncaster. His front-running tactics could also play into the hands of the better-fancied runners.
In summary, Illinois appears the most dependable option at the current odds, but the unbeaten Jan Brueghel and the stout-staying Grosvenor Square both offer intriguing alternatives. With the potential absence of hot favorite Los Angeles, the Betfred St Leger is shaping up to be an open and exciting renewal.
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