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| Staff Writer |
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The countdown is on for flat racing's most prestigious event, as ParisLongchamp prepares to host the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe weekend from 3rd to 6th October. The eyes of the racing world are firmly fixed on Paris, with top-class runners, representing racing's elite connections, set to battle for glory.
The jewel in the crown, the Gr.1 Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, run over 2400m with a staggering purse of US$5.3 million, headlines Sunday's card. Five-time rated as the world's best horse race, the Arc has a rich history of producing champions. Last year saw Alpinista, trained by Sir Mark Prescott, storm to victory, adding her name to an illustrious list of winners including Enable, Treve, and Sea The Stars.
Reflecting Qatar's commitment to Arabian racing, the Gr.1 PA Qatar Arabian World Cup takes pride of place on Arc day. Run over 2000m and offering a US$1.06 million purse, it's Europe's richest contest for purebred Arabians. Qatari owners have dominated in recent years, with Ebraz, trained by Julian Smart, securing a memorable hat-trick from 2019-2021.
The recent Qatar Arc Trials Day at ParisLongchamp offered valuable insights into Arc contenders. In the Gr.1 Qatar Prix Vermeille, Bluestocking, representing Juddmonte, stamped her authority with an impressive victory. Meanwhile, the Gr.2 Qatar Prix Foy saw Iresine, owned by Bertrand Milliere, stake her claim for Arc glory.
The Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe weekend consistently attracts a truly global field. This year promises to be no exception, with connections from Japan, Ireland, and the UK all eyeing the coveted prize. The final declarations, eagerly awaited in the coming days, will reveal the full scope of international challengers.
HE Issa bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, leading the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club (QREC) management, is working closely with France Galop to ensure the event's seamless organisation. From coordinating sponsors and guests to overseeing trophy presentations, no detail is being overlooked.
The build-up to the Arc weekend kicks off at Saint Cloud, hosting a high-quality Arabian race day on Friday, 4th October. Two Gr.1 PA contests for three-year-olds – the Qatar Arabian Trophy for fillies and the equivalent for colts – will provide a fitting prelude to the main event.
As ParisLongchamp prepares to welcome tens of thousands of spectators, the anticipation for world-class racing action is palpable. With the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and the Qatar Arabian World Cup taking centre stage, the first weekend of October promises to deliver unforgettable moments in the sport of kings.