The exhibition will include a collection of new works inspired by more than 250 years of stories, people, places and traditions connected to this historic race and mark the closing of The Great St Leger Exhibition which has exhibited a range of objects from the Heritage Doncaster Collection.
Newly Commissioned Works
At a special event taking place on the opening day of the exhibition, a highlight will be the official unveiling of a series of newly commissioned works, each offering a unique interpretation of the St Leger story.
Artist Rebecca Wright of Wright Art Studio will unveil her completed work created following her live painting performance at this year's Betfred St Leger Festival, capturing the atmosphere, excitement and spectacle of race day.
Visitors will also see a new commission by Doncaster artist Chris Teal, inspired by the famous 'A Yearling Sale in Doncaster (1885)' and developed in collaboration with hundreds of local people. The artwork combines heritage with community creativity providing a 2026 perspective on the St Leger's continuing relevance to Doncaster.
A further unveiling will reveal Imogen Joyce's striking textile work, 250 Years Woven: St Leger, a piece that reflects the rich history, traditions and stories woven through the race's remarkable 250-year legacy.
Visitors will also get to see the colourful horse sculpture created by Angie Hardwick working with a number of community groups. The woven horse captures 250 St Leger moments and memories.
Poetry and Pit Pony
The celebration will also showcase original poetry created by a group of local writers who have worked alongside acclaimed local poet Ian Parks, exploring themes of heritage, place, sport and community inspired by the St Leger and Doncaster.
Adding to the programme will be the launch of Pit Pony, a powerful new sound installation by Gemma Whelan in collaboration with local historian and St Leger expert Tony Barber, a group of Doncaster young people and composer Ben Bickley. The piece captures the extraordinary moment when pit ponies emerged from Edlington Colliery to race like thoroughbreds, bringing together two important strands of Doncaster's history: coal mining and horse racing.
The artworks will be on display at DGLAM until mid-December and at Doncaster Racecourse during Spring 2027.
What Partners Say
Councillor David Nevett, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Wellbeing and Culture said:
The 250th anniversary of the St Leger has been an opportunity to celebrate an event that has played such an important role in Doncaster’s story. The project has captured the memories, traditions and heritage that make the St Leger so special, while helping to ensure its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Rachel Harwood, Chief Executive of Doncaster Racecourse said:
The St Leger has captivated audiences for a quarter of a millennium and remains one of the defining features of Doncaster’s heritage and sporting calendar. This project has brought together history, sport, creativity and community in a fitting tribute to that legacy. We are delighted to see the stories of the St Leger celebrated in such imaginative ways and hope the project inspires new generations to discover and take pride in this unique part of Doncaster’s history.
Rachel Blake, Partnership and Engagement Manager for Heritage Doncaster said:
Being part of the St Leger 250 project has been both a privilege and a journey of discovery. Through working with communities, heritage partners, racecourse staff, bookmakers, schools and care homes we have uncovered remarkable stories that highlight the significance of the St Leger to Doncaster and beyond. The project is not yet complete, and we look forward to delivering the final elements, including collaborations with Harrison College and the Mexborough & District Heritage Society, over the coming months.
The St Leger 250 heritage programme has been made possible through funding and support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Doncaster Racecourse and City of Doncaster Council.
