Daryz wins Prix Foy as Arc title defence gathers momentum
Daryz defeated Bay City Roller by one and three-quarter lengths at ParisLongchamp, setting up an expected return to the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on 4 October.
Daryz has strengthened his prospects of defending the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe crown with a dominant victory in the Prix Foy at ParisLongchamp.
The four-year-old travelled alongside Bay City Roller before being pushed out under hands and heels to win by one and three-quarter lengths. Bay City Roller, a 10-length winner of the Coronation Cup, finished second.
The result continued a strong campaign for Daryz, who had already won the Prix Ganay and Prix Aga Khan IV before finishing third in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.
Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard told Sky Sports Racing the race provided ideal preparation and said Daryz had further improvement to come. His assessment was based on the horse’s performance rather than a confirmed outcome in the Arc.
Bay City Roller’s trainer said the horse could improve with rain and different conditions when the pair are potentially reunited in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on 4 October. Daryz is expected to attempt to retain the title, while Bay City Roller’s participation remains prospective.
