The Prix de I’Arc de Triomphe, horse races in France, has a long history with its ups and downs. In this article, we will do our best to point out the reasons for the event’s uniqueness and originality. Without further ado, let’s dive into the magnificent world of the Prix de I’Arc de Triomphe races.
History
The race was intended to become the first one in which horses from all world countries could take part. After all, before that, only French-bred horses were allowed to race in the country. So, everything was designed in a way to make a truly international competition while highlighting the capabilities of the country’s horses. It took place for the first time in October 1920, and was won by the three-year-old horse named Comrade, which was owned by Evremond de Saint-Alary.
The race continued to become more popular and underwent several developments. It was temporarily stopped during World War II but resumed in 1943. After that, many notable horses became legends of this sport.
The 1970s are considered the early days of the modern era of the event. The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe horse race is still active and popular, being the country’s biggest. Many successful horses played a role in its legacy. The race continued to attract larger audiences, and its prizes grew, with the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club becoming the main sponsor.
The event holds cultural significance in France and is often called “l’Arc.” Its atmosphere, intensity, and everything surrounding the race are quite exciting, so it doesn’t surprise anybody that the event grew that popular.
Trends
This is the largest equestrian event in the country. It’s highly anticipated and held annually. It’s a flat racing event on a 2,400-meter-long track. The venue, which is quite a developed one and located in Paris, is where it takes place.
One of the most obvious Prix de I’Arc de Triomphe trends is the growth of the final prize sum. With the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club as a sponsor of the races, it became possible to double the prize from €2 million to €4 million in 2008. And it is not the limit. Now, the sum is up to €5 million.
Race Statistics
Let’s check out some interesting data about the event. Below, we’ll list some factual and statistical information about the track and the races.
- Length: 2,400 meters
- Speed record: 2’24″49 by the horse Danedram in 2011, although the record was broken in 2016 by Found with the time of 2’23″61.
- Victories per country:
- France: 58
- UK: 17
- Ireland: 9
- Italy: 6
- Germany: 2
Most Successful Arc Jockeys
In the long history of the race, many notable jockeys have participated in the event. It is rather obvious that they are an integral part of the whole event and the ones who do the show. Let’s look at the best ones.
- Frankie Dettori. He holds the record for the biggest number of wins: a total of 6. Here are the horses he was riding: Lammtarra (1995), Sakhee (2001), Marienbard (2002), Golden Horn (2015), and Enable (2017, 2018).
- Thierry Jarnet. This jockey has four wins in total and is still active. He won in 1992, 1994, 2013, and 2014.
- Olivier Peslier. Another successful jockey, Peslier, has 4 wins at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. He was riding Helissio when he got his first one in 1996. The second victory happened a year later when he rode Peintre Célèbre. The racehorse named Sagamix helped him win in 1998. His most recent victory happened in 2012, and the horse was Solémia.
Frankie Dettori’s winning in 2017. (Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2017/oct/01/enable-wins-prix-de-larc-de-triomphe-frankie-dettori-horse-racing)
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Some of The Greatest Classic Prix de l’Arc de Triomphes
Well, amat victoria curam or victory loves preparation! It is kind of accurate. However, we would add that victory loves not only preparation but good horses as well. So, let’s look at the best horses and their most impressive wins!
Sea Bird (1965)
Sea-Bird was a racehorse with a long series of victories. He won Critérium de Maisons-Laffitte in 1964 and the Epsom Derby in 1995. His victory at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is another significant achievement.
Sea Bird wins the Arc in 1965 (Source: https://www.timeform.com/horse-racing/features/previews/blast-from-the-past-prix-de-larc-de-triomphe-2892016)
Ribot (1956)
Ribot was a racehorse with an impressive career. Many experts still consider him one of the best in the sport. Ribot stood out with his versatility, including his ability to race different tracks. He has a long list of achievements, including winning the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe races two times in a row: in 1955 and 1956. The experts find the 1956 win more impressive due to fiercer competition. Both times, Enrico Camici was the jockey riding Ribot.
Dancing Brave (1986)
This is another horse that made history. 1986 was a great year for this racehorse. He won 2000 Guineas, the Eclipse Stakes, and the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, all during that year. And, of course, he won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. The winning in the greatest horse race in France is quite impressive. Another shocking fact is that his racing career only lasted for a year, but he indeed made an impact.
Mill Reef (1971)
Let’s finalize our list by mentioning Mill Reef. This is another horse with a relatively short (only three years) but an impressive racing career. He enjoyed the wins at the Epsom Derby, Eclipse Stakes, and Deerham Stakes. The year 1971 was especially productive for this horse. All in all, after these serious victories, he also won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, showing impressive speed while also beating the runner-up by three lengths!
Horse Racing Venues in Paris
So, where does the race take place? Throughout its history, it has only been held in two places. Below, we’ll provide information about both.
Hippodrome Paris-Longchamp
The event almost always takes place at the Longchamp Racecourse. The facility is designed solely for flat-racing and has been active for over 150 years. It can host up to 50,000 people and is home for many other equestrian events in France.
Hippodrome de Chantilly
Another large venue, Hippodrome de Chantilly which is 50 kilometers north of Paris, hosted the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe during 2016 and 2017, since the Longchamp was under renovation.
It regularly hosts the Prix du Jockey Club. Although the track is less popular than the venues in Paris and larger cities, it is still important.
Conclusion
Horse racing is a fascinating sport with many events. The list is impressively long since many countries host multiple ones. The most important ones include the Kentucky Derby, Breeders Cup, and Royal Ascot. The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe also belongs to the list. After all, this event continues to attract thousands of visitors, the best horses, and jockeys from all around the world.
Our article described the race in detail. We covered its history, most impressive wins, record-winning jockeys, and even the venues that host it.
