As a son of Ahonoora,[3] he is a representative of the Byerley Turk sire line,[4] unlike more than 95% of modern thoroughbreds, who descend directly from the Darley Arabian.

[6] He was purchased by Italian businessman Luciano Gaucci, owner of the Allevamento White Star breeding and racing operation who had had great success in the late 1980s with the colt Tony Bin.

After the race, Sidney Craig asked the advice of his American trainer, Ron McAnally, who advised him that Dr Devious was a turf specialist and that he should send the colt back to England.

Starting the 8/1 second favourite in a field of eighteen, he took the lead a furlong from the finish and held off the challenges of St Jovite and Silver Wisp to win by two lengths.

Dr Devious was made odds-on favourite but was never able to make a serious challenge to St Jovite, who won by twelve lengths in record time.

The two horses raced head-to-head down the straight with Dr Devious moving ahead near the post and winning by a short head.