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| Staff Writer |
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Forget ordinary races. Forget fleeting thrills. The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is a tapestry woven with legendary hooves, audacious jockeys, and a stage worthy of emperors: beneath the Parisian sky, the shadow of the Arc de Triomphe itself.
This isn't a contest, it's a coronation. A dance of thoroughbred titans on the emerald canvas of Longchamp, their thunderous strides echoing centuries of equestrian glory. Since 1920, champions have etched their names onto this hallowed turf, forever entwined with the monument that symbolizes Parisian triumph.
Though time has etched its passage, the Arc's essence remains unblemished. Twice, in the throes of war, the race found temporary refuge at Le Tremblay, its distance a touch shorter, the stakes no less immense.
And when Longchamp underwent metamorphosis, the crown found a new pedestal in Chantilly, its Parisian soul forever imprinted in its name. The Arc de Triomphe is not merely a racetrack; it's a portal to a realm where hooves paint fleeting constellations against the canvas of eternity.
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is known for its grandeur and historical significance, leading to its nickname as "a monument" rather than just a race. The prize money for the 2022 edition of the race was a reported US$54,66,850.00, with US$31,23,758.09 going to the winner alone. This makes it the fifth-richest turf race in the contemporary market.
Imagine the roar of 60,000 spectators as eight-time champions like Enable and Treve thunder down the course, their muscles rippling like silk banners in the wind. Frankie Dettori, the undisputed king of this arena, weaves his magic in the saddle, six victories a testament to his unyielding brilliance.
The Arc is a crucible of glory for thoroughbreds of three years and beyond. No gelding may tread its path, for this is a test reserved for the elite, the dancers on the razor's edge of equine potential.
But legends weren't born overnight. Records tumble here like autumn leaves. Found, a blur of equine grace, shaved seconds off the clock in 2016, while nations clash in a ballet of hooves – France, the undisputed monarch with 47 victories, locked in a spirited waltz with Ireland and its 20 recent champions.
The 2023 edition was a microcosm of this magic. A racehorse forged in fire, Ace Impact extended his undefeated streak, while Westover and Hukum dueled for silver. The 52YO Frankie Dettori, a legend in the sport, raced in this edition but finished in thirteenth place with Free Wind. The pre-race favorite was Ace Impact, ridden by Cristian Demuro, who had already won the race in 2020. Ace Impact's unbeaten status was challenged by the American and British combination of Westover and jockey Rob Hornby, who finished in second place.
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This isn't just about speed or pedigree. It's about defying expectations. Like Onesto, the underdog who danced with giants and snatched a bronze, leaving pundits speechless and pockets heavier. Or Mr Hollywood, and Sisfahan who led the pack for a glorious moment before succumbing to the sheer force of destiny. This year, every stride, every jockey's decision, was a brushstroke on the canvas of equine destiny.
More than a race, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is a testament to the boundless spirit of the horse, the unwavering artistry of the jockey, and the enduring allure of a legend etched in stone and hoofbeats.
With each edition, the race continues to build on its storied history and leaves spectators eagerly awaiting the next thrilling installment. So come, witness the dance of champions, and let the thunder of hooves ignite your soul.