Saffie Osborne is set to bring her adventurous spirit to the United States as she becomes only the fourth female jockey to compete in the Preakness Stakes. At just 23 years old, this British talent is eyeing the alluring £1 million prize on offer. Osborne’s skill was recently on display with her remarkable last-minute victory in the Victoria Cup, where she guided a 22-1 longshot to success at Ascot.
This weekend, the spotlight will be on her and her horse Heart Of Honor as they thunder down the track in Maryland’s Pimlico Race Course. Heart Of Honor is no stranger to achievement, having been conditioned by Jamie Osborne, Saffie’s father and a distinguished Lambourn trainer. The British underdog already turned local heads when it became the first European entry in 150 editions of the Preakness.
The colt’s journey to this position is a saga of strategic foresight and unyielding grit. Initially bought as a winter project for owners Jim and Claire Bryce, Heart Of Honor surpassed expectations, clinching two victories and a few close seconds on the Dubai racing scene. He narrowly missed winning the UAE Derby, showcasing his bold spirit and relentless drive, the hallmark of a dirt-bred horse.
Jamie Osborne’s approach to this ambitious venture is rooted in his belief that racing must be as thrilling as it is competitive. ‘We didn’t start with the intention of tackling the US Triple Crown, but here we are,’ he reflects, adding a touch of humor to the daunting challenges his team embraces. For the Bryces and the Osbornes, it’s more than just a race; it’s an exhilarating adventure.
The decision to bypass the Kentucky Derby, known as a challenging contest for UAE Derby winners, in favor of the Preakness is a tactical one. With a smaller field of nine runners compared to the usual lineup of twenty plus, the race provides a fitting arena for Heart Of Honor to play to his strengths. The Pimlico track will be a proving ground for this emerging star, whose robust build and determined demeanor resemble those of a four-wheel-drive truck—huge, powerful, and built for the dirt.
Jamie draws on past experiences with Toast Of New York, another success story from his stable that nearly clinched the Breeders’ Cup Classic years ago. He recognizes the parallels with Heart Of Honor and trusts the colt could surprise everyone on the race day. With eyes fixed on larger courses like the Saudi Cup and Dubai World Cup, where stakes soar even higher, this weekend’s race could be a stepping stone for future triumphs.
As anticipation builds, Saffie Osborne straps on her helmet, ready to ride her longshot contender into racing history. With the power of British talent and relentless determination, all eyes will be on her and Heart Of Honor as they gallop down the Pimlico field. It’s an opportunity to watch a new chapter of racing unfold.
