BREEDERS CUP: HIstoric Turf Win For O'Brien Family

Sunday, 6 November 2011: Irish rider Joseph O'Brien became the youngest jockey to ever win a Breeders' Cup race as he steered St Nicholas Abbey, trained by his father, to a famous success in the BC Turf at Churchill Downs.

St Nicholas Abbey Photo by Racing and Sports

Settled in mid-division by the 18-year-old, the Montjeu colt picked up superbly when angled out for a run.

Sir Michael Stoute's Sea Moon and Ryan Moore had given chase to Brilliant Speed off the turn, but St Nicholas Abbey swamped them both, stretching clear in tremendous style.

Sea Moon had no answer in second, with Brilliant Speed third.

A clearly moved trainer and proud father Aidan O'Brien said: "It's very special, unbelievable.

"It was a wonderful ride, it's incredible. What can I say, he's an incredible rider."

Joseph's mother, Anne-Marie, said: "I'm so excited, he gave it a super ride. It's fantastic.

"My heart was going 100mph, I could hardly stand up I was so nervous. We are so pleased to be here."

Joseph O'Brien Photo by Racing and Sports

Young Joseph O'Brien said: "It's a dream come true. I was very happy with my position, I was very happy with the horse and he picked up when it mattered.

"They went a nice pace, I had to be patient and wait for the gaps, but when he got out he picked up well.

"I've been coming to the Breeders' Cup since I was very small, but to ride here and ride a winner - it's out of this world."

Coolmore partner Derrick Smith said: "This is way up there.

"We've always had faith in the horse and to see Joseph, it's a day from the gods. They have put so much work into everything.

"It's unbelievable for us.

"The horse showed all his brilliance today, we always knew it was there."