Crystal Ocean narrowly denied in the Leger

Irish Derby winner Capri supplied Aidan O'Brien with his fifth win in the St Leger at Doncaster yesterday. The son of Galileo, who was placed over ten furlongs as a juvenile, relished the step up to a mile and six at Town Moor and it was his staying power which proved decisive. Not at his best during the early part of this season, Capri has got better as the year has gone on beating Cracksman at the Curragh in July. Forced to miss the Great Voltigeur at York last month, fitness clearly wasn't an issue as he battled on well to beat Crystal Ocean by half a length.

The runner-up travelled through the race like the best horse and looked set to win entering the final 200 yards. However, Jim Crowley's mount's had no more to give close home and was narrowly denied. Despite his defeat, I remain convinced Crystal Ocean will develop into a top-class four year old over twelve furlongs next year. Indeed, his relations Crystal Capella and Hillstar improved with age and I expect their younger sibling to do likewise. He is a terrific prospect for 2018.

Coronet ran creditably in fifth for John Gosden but wasn't quite good enough having moved into contention inside the final quarter of a mile. This year's St Leger looked a strong renewal which was dominated by three very good colts who should continue to compete at the highest level next year.

As well as the forthcoming edition of One Jump Ahead, which is due to be published on Tuesday (19th September), the Autumn Update is also available to purchase via the Publications section of the site. The price is £6 and will be sent to clients on Thursday 28th September. I will be working on the Update this week before heading to Scotland for the final two days of the Ayr Gold Cup Festival on Friday.