This Sunday, October 6, 2024, the racing world will turn its attention to the ParisLongchamp racecourse for the 103rd edition of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (QPAT). Known for its prestige and high stakes, this race annually attracts the best horses and professionals worldwide, along with around 35,000 spectators from across the globe.
Arc Legends: Trêve, Enable, Zarkava, and Sea The Stars
While tracking technology was not yet available, the performances of Trêve (2013-2014), Enable (2017-2018), Zarkava (2008), and Sea The Stars (2009) are etched into Arc history. These horses not only claimed victory but left an unforgettable legacy. Sea The Stars, who went on to become an outstanding stallion, made the 2009 Arc memorable with his dominance before heading to stud. Other dual winners, though from earlier times, include Ksar (1921-1922), Motrico (1930-1932), Corrida (1936-1937), Tantième (1950-1951), Ribot (1955-1956), and Alleged (1977-1978), all of whom helped shape the Arc’s prestigious reputation.
Insights from 2021 and 2022 through Data
Tracking data from the 2021 and 2022 editions shed light on how race tactics have evolved over the years. For instance, the 2021 race was more tactical, with a gradual acceleration in the final 3 furlongs. In contrast, the pace of the 2022 edition was steadier throughout, despite a slightly slower finish. With a total time of 2:37.62 for Torquator Tasso and René Piechulek, compared to Alpinista’s 2:35.71, the 2022 edition was faster overall. Notably, Alpinista reached a top speed of 40.56 mph in 2022, while Torquator Tasso clocked 38.21 mph in 2021. Despite Alpinista’s higher top speed and faster overall time in 2022, the finish was slower, with Alpinista covering the last 3 furlongs in 13.70 seconds compared to Torquator Tasso’s 12.44 seconds the previous year. Thus, 2021’s winning strategy involved holding back until the closing stages, whereas in 2022, the front runners maintained a faster pace from the start.
Draw Numbers: A Key Factor
The post positions for the 2024 edition were drawn on Friday. Along with track conditions, past form, and jockey performance, the draw offers a hint of which horses might emerge as contenders. On ParisLongchamp’s 1.5-mile course, the starting position can be crucial. Horses drawn wide, like those in stalls 14 to 16, often have to navigate around the field, making the race more challenging. This year, Continuous, Sunway, and Msqe de Sévigné face this outer draw challenge. Conversely, Zarakem, Fantastic Moon, and Bluestocking must avoid getting trapped on the inside, knowing that the luckiest draw since 1980 has been stall 2, closely followed by stall 6, which this year goes to Survie (winner of the 2024 Prix de Dianes Longines).
Among the race favorites, Look de Vega has drawn post 8, Shin Emperor post 11, and Sosie post 5.
Maxime Guyon: An Unfinished Quest
Once again, Maxime Guyon will ride for the Wertheimer brothers in this year’s Arc. A three-time Cravache d’Or winner and multiple Group 1 winner both in France and abroad, Guyon will partner the favorite, Sosie, and aims to secure his first-ever Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe victory.
An Edition to Watch Closely
Other notable entries include Delius, runner-up to Sosie in the Qatar Prix Niel, Aventure, who will now take part, and Sevenna’s Knight, one of the top French stayers trying his luck over the classic distance. Tune in this Sunday around 4:20 PM for the race. In the meantime, find practical information here: Equidia – Practical Info for the 2024 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.