Sir Michael Stoute’s long wait for a St Leger title came to an end on Saturday, as the Barbadian trainer claimed the 2008 St Leger Stakes with Conduit.

Saturday’s race was Stoute’s 24th attempt to win the St Leger, and the trainer was delighted to finally achieve a career grand slam of Classic wins.

“This is a great thrill and a great relief,” Stoute said after the race. “Now at last I won’t have to field any questions about when will I end my St Leger drought!”

The day was also a happy occasion for Conduit’s rider Frankie Dettori, who was given Conduit’s reins after Ryan Moore chose stablemate Doctor Fremantle for the race.

“I said to Sir Michael you have asked Pat Eddery, Lester Piggott, Kieren Fallon and Ryan Moore and I am the last name on the list!” Dettori said after the race. “I sympathise with Ryan because I have been there many times and chosen the wrong horse. I feel blessed that it was me today to have given Michael his first ever St Leger winner.”

Tommy Stack’s Unsung Heroine ran impressively to claim second place at the 2008 St Leger Stakes, and was followed home by Epsom Oaks winner Look Here in third place.