Mini Hawk wins the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe: how a mare from Ukraine took the main prize.
A Chance for Mini Hawk
According to The Sun: American opera dramatic soprano Mini Hawk lost most of her wealth during World War I. But on Sunday in France, her 'rival' got a unique opportunity to become extremely rich in one of the biggest competitions.
PAMini Hawk secured an important spot in Stall 1 at the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, often considered the European middle-distance championship in the world of grass racing.
I will gladly be there for Sky Sports Racing to provide the best track interviews.
Arc Winners
Among the Arc winners are legends like Sea Bird, Mill Reef, Dancing Brave, Lammtarra, Montjeu, Sinndar, Sakhee, Sea The Stars, Treve, Enable, and Golden Horn.
We should also remember Zarkava, the brilliant three-year-old mare who won from an inside position in 2008.
Despite this successful history, Stall 1 is usually not the best choice for the Arc.
However, considering that Mini Hawk is trained by Aidan O'Brien and her partner Los Angeles will take an outside position, it could be a gift from the gods.
Speed is key in every race, and Mini Hawk will be alongside Darius, Sosi, and Javis, who will be chasing the leaders.
She can move ahead to wait for Alois Kalli to make a move or hold her position and let Los Angeles make the decision.
All of this will make for a perfect combination for Christophe Soumillon. Mini Hawk has only lost once, was a winner in Oxford, and demonstrated her class in both Ireland and Yorkshire. She is the favorite in the competition.
Honestly, I am surprised I wrote all of the above.
Right after her victory in Vermeille, I thought Avventura deserved the favorite status for the Arc. But last year's runner-up got a start from an outside position and now has to compete against Coolmore, which is more talented than Blustokinga, the horse that defeated Avventura a year ago.
Kalpana has chances for prizes for Andrew Balding, but I doubt her new move will have a positive impact; she has somewhat fallen short this season.
Some may consider me crazy, but I am not sure that last year's fourth Sosi is a real contender at this distance. Last season he did not have strong competitors, and personally, I lacked the strength to finish after Blustokinga. Maybe I am wrong.
Japanese runners Byzantine Sun and Croix du Nord will be much more appealing on a faster surface.
However, it is difficult to say what the surface will be like at the time of the competition. I expect it to be soft.
Qualifcaru needs significant recovery for the Godolphin team. The ground does not suit Hong Kong winner Javis, who would be better on a faster surface. I am betting on Mini Hawk.
Prospects at Newmarket
On Saturday I will be in Newmarket for ITV to cover the events of Group 1 Sun Chariot Stakes.
Angel's Fall will be a strong favorite after his wins in Group 1 Rothschild and Matron, but the ground may be too fast for Wathnan Racing's star.
Lady Spain has been a revelation for Roger Varian and has won five starts, giving Ray Dawson a great opportunity to win at the highest level.
However, I believe that the representative of Godolphin Syndrella (2.40) has the highest probability of victory.
All this classy horse Charlie Appleby needs is a strong pace, and she will definitely get that here thanks to Angel's Fall, Spirit, and Fire, who can lead the race.
This will be music to William Buick's ears, as Syndrella could go further than this distance.
She has been exceptionally successful in second place at the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf at a mile and three-quarters and returned to the UK this season with an excellent victory at Dahlia.
All circumstances are lined up for Syndrella's final push, and I expect her to finish the race very strongly.
Mini Hawk and Syndrella — both should be noted for the Arc weekend.
Let’s enjoy the event!
Remember to play responsibly
A responsible player is one who:
- Sets time and money limits before playing
- Plays only with money they can afford to lose
- Never tries to chase lost money
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