Securing 3,314 career victories, Yves Saint-Martin established a dominance in French Thoroughbred racing that spanned three decades. After beginning his professional journey in 1958, the Agen-born rider claimed the national champion jockey title fifteen times. His career included thirty French Classics and notable international triumphs, securing his standing as one of the most prolific figures in equestrian history.
Early Career and Domestic Dominance
Saint-Martin recorded his inaugural win on 26 July 1958, riding for Mme Suzy Volterra. This marked the start of an era defined by his consistency at the highest levels of French racing. Between 1960 and 1983, he secured the leading jockey title on fifteen separate occasions. Of his 3,314 career victories globally, 3,275 were achieved on French soil, solidifying his stature within the national sporting landscape.
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The rider's success extended well beyond France, with significant wins at major global venues. In 1962, he competed at Laurel Park Racecourse near Baltimore, Maryland, winning the Washington, D.C. International aboard Match II. He outperformed established competitors such as Carry Back and Kelso in that event. His international portfolio also features victories in the United States, including the Breeders' Cup Mile and Breeders' Cup Turf, as well as successes in Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, and Germany.
Record-Breaking Group One Performance
Saint-Martin holds several records in prestigious Group One races. He is tied for the highest number of wins in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, having reached the winner's circle four times with Sassafras, Allez France, Akiyda, and Sagace. Furthermore, he set a record for the most victories in the Prix du Jockey Club, winning the race nine times between 1965 and 1987. His proficiency across various disciplines, from sprints like the Prix de l'Abbaye to endurance trials like the Prix du Cadran, demonstrated his versatility.
Honours and Post-Retirement Interests
Reflecting his contribution to sport, Saint-Martin received the French 'Academie des sports' Prix Claude Foussier in 1971. He is also a Knight of the Legion of Honour and an inductee into the French Racing Hall of Fame. Following his retirement from professional riding, he pursued an interest in vintage automotive collection, owning various models including vehicles from Maserati, Ford, Rolls-Royce, and Aston Martin. His son, Eric, continued the family tradition as a jockey in France and Hong Kong.
Fast facts
- Born: 8 September 1941, Agen, France
- Total career wins: 3,314
- French champion jockey titles: 15
- Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe wins: 4
- Prix du Jockey Club wins: 9
- Awards: Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Primary residence: France
Questions readers ask
How many Classics did Yves Saint-Martin win in France?
He won a total of 30 Classics during his career in France.
Which major international race did he win in the United States in 1962?
He won the Washington, D.C. International at Laurel Park Racecourse aboard the horse Match II.
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