ZARKAVA is the undoubted star of Europe's greatest racing weekend – the unbeaten French-trained filly heads a star-studded Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp tomorrow and there will be some crying into the onion soup on home soil if she is beaten.
The supporting act to the great race include numerous top-class events at the Paris track and Newmarket along with the ultra-competitive totescoop6 Two-Year-Old Trophy on Redcar's best card of the year.
Zarkava has become the most talked-about fil
ly of her generation since her incredible victory in the Prix Vermeille, where she completed the French version of the fillies' triple crown. Completely left at the start that day, she produced a late burst that had to be seen to be believed and will obviously take the world of beating if getting out of the stalls on time.
However, she faces colts for the first time here and it's impossible to see her mowing down the likes of Soldier Of Fortune, Duke of Marmalade or Youmzain in the same way.
One of the best middle-distance performances witnessed this season was by Youmzain in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud where he was ridden much closer to the pace than normal and had far too much speed for Soldier of Fortune.
Although regular pilot Richard Hughes has been replaced by Richard Hills, last year's runner-up is a fair each-way price due to some inconsistent form and looks the safest option to see off the 'super filly' Zarkava.
The best of luck to the battalion of Yorkshire raiders heading for the French capital over the next two days, including Captain Gerrard and Borderlescott in the 'Abbaye.
Perhaps our best chance lies with Utmost Respect in today's Prix de La Foret although Richard Fahey's charge would prefer rain.
Mark Johnston has a bright prospect in last week's Ascot winner Liberation, who steps up in grade in the Tattersalls Timeform Million at Newmarket, but should do well.
Alan Swinbank has booked Jamie Spencer for the progressive Prince of Kalamoun in the totesport.com Cambridgeshire and their chances are greatly respected, but the look of Military Power at a big price looks good as he's already fortunate to sneak into the race with bottom weight.
Redcar's feature looks very open, but hopefully the huge prize can stay 'home' via Richard Whitaker's Quanah Parker, an impressive winner at Ripon last time and from a yard in outstanding form.
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