French hopes on royal high after Sarafina tour de force

Chris McGrath
Monday 14 June 2010 00:00 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

The French are expecting big things at Royal Ascot this week – not least through Goldikova and Makfi tomorrow – and will leave home soil emboldened by a breakthrough yesterday for another new star. Though not yet two months into her career, Sarafina is now an unbeaten Classic winner after leading a one-two for her trainer and owner in the Prix de Diane, the French Oaks, at Chantilly.

She quickened decisively in the straight to see off her stablemate, Rosanara, and so become the sixth filly to win this race for Alain de Royer-Dupré and the Aga Khan. "I am often asked when I will produce a great colt," the owner said. "But it's the great fillies that are more important for the stability and future of my stud. And that is what is important to me."

De Royer-Dupré, meanwhile, indicated that while Rosanara will step up in trip for the Prix Vermeille, Sarafina will continue to be "nurtured" over 10 furlongs. Even so, Ladbrokes were among those to introduce Sarafina into the Arc reckoning, at 12-1.

Rachel Alexandra, favoured over Zenyatta in a contentious duel for US Horse of the Year, was another filly to star over the weekend, erasing two shock blow-outs this spring with a 10-length success at Churchill Downs.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in