Vinnie Roe Denied 5th Straight St. Leger
Updated: Sunday, September 18, 2005 1:20 AM
Posted: Saturday, September 17, 2005 9:53 PM
Photo: AP/PA, Cathal McNaughton
by Mary SchweitzerBritish raider Collier Hill denied veteran Vinnie Roe a fifth consecutive win in the Irish Field St. Leger (Ire-I) at the Curragh on Saturday.
Vinnie Roe and jockey Pat Smullen were traveling well as they hit the front turning for home. However, the 7-year-old's stamina gave way inside the final furlong, and Collier Hill and The Whistling Teal overtook him a few jumps before the wire. Co-favorite Yeats, who did not enjoy the going, got up for fourth.
Collier Hill, a 7-year-old by Dr. Devious, now sports victories in six different countries – Scotland, England, Ireland, Germany, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates.
The win on Saturday was his first at group I level and his tenth overall.
Next up for the Alan Swinbank trainee will be the Melbourne Cup (Aus-I) in November.
Vinnie Roe may also be joining him for Australia's greatest race.
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