7th October 2012

It's finally here. After one of the most exciting buildups in recent memory, the Prix De L'Arc De Triomphe is upon us at Longchamp. Some truly top class racing is on at the Parisian venue, and here are the best bets of the day.

14.05 Longchamp

Aidan O'Brien's Pedro The Great and George Vancouver provide a strong Irish challenge, and the French defence is headed by course and distance winner What A Name, but it will take a very good horse to beat Hannon's OLYMPIC GLORY. Already a winner over a couple of these back home, off level weights he should be very hard to pass and is proven in soft conditions. Hughes knows how to time runs on him perfectly and he represents tremendous value. 9/4

14.40 Longchamp

Another race where the known form, if holding true on the day, should provide an obvious winner. IZZI TOP has arguably been the most impressive filly this year after Snow Fairy, who she lost to recently by only three quarters of a length. She has also beaten some good yardsticks over soft conditions as well and her main rivals in Giofra and Galikova have been recently accounted for already. 3/1

15.25 Longchamp

The feature race of the day has turned out a strong field despite the high profile withdrawals. Camelot has come into favourite, but the way he handles soft ground in the Irish Derby means he has to be taken on. The prevailing weather ensures this race will play nicely into the hands of SEA MOON. Any problems with the wide draw have been reduced by the going and his stamina to last beyond a mile and a half will bode well for him. Orfevre is the other major threat but in an energy sapping race like this may get found out. The lesser threats are from Shareta, Great Heavens and Saonois but with Ryan Moore back in the saddle after injury, Sea Moon will put in a great run.  9/1

16.55 Longchamp

Plenty of proven soft performers in here with Gordon Lord Byron and Penitent. But at the value, STARSPANGLEDBANNER stands out. Second last time to Maarek, a true mud lover, with the form further improved since, he clearly handles soft better than the market suggests. His first two runs could have got him back to his best, and a good run is expected. 15/2

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer