Kate Tracey, Callum Helliwell and Sam Boswell gathered on the Weekend Winners programme to dissect the most promising betting opportunities for a thrilling weekend of flat racing both at home and overseas. As the show drew to a close, the trio turned their attention to the upcoming Prix Ganay, a Group 1 contest that will be broadcast live from Longchamp in Paris at 3:25 p.m. on Sunday.
The Prix Ganay, traditionally a key early‑season test for middle‑distance horses, will feature six runners contesting the ten‑furlong distance for a coveted Group 1 victory. The race is notable for having been won last season by Sosie, who later went on to finish third in the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. This year, the field includes a mix of proven talent and hopeful challengers, with the French‑trained Daryz heading the betting as the favourite.
Daryz, trained by Francis‑Henri Graffard, arrives in Paris after a strong performance in the previous season’s Arc where he finished first. He will be joined by Graffard’s other entries – Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the mare Aventure – all of whom have been earmarked as potential spoilers to the favourite's plans. One of the panelists explained his reasoning: "I am backing the favourite Daryz in the Prix Ganay on Sunday, even though he bested my own selection in his most recent run last season. Aventure is also in the field, but she endured a disastrous ride in the Arc last year.
She was drawn on the outside, never settled, and essentially sank through the pack like a stone dropped in water. "She was far from disgraceful behind Calandagan last season – Calandagan is a rock‑solid performer and the stable companion to the favourite. If Aventure is fit and eager this time, I think she can rebound to her previous form today." The discussion then shifted to a broader look at the racing calendar.
The hosts highlighted a series of notable stories: Raaheeb, a Derby hopeful, delivered a polished Classic Trial performance at Sandown, while Opera Ballo upset Field Of Gold in a mile‑length showdown. In the jumps arena, trainer Dan Skelton expressed pride after his team clinched the championship title. Sky Sports Racing also promoted upcoming coverage from Doncaster, Chepstow and Fontwell, and announced that former footballers Luke Littler and Stephen Bunting have entered racehorse ownership at Michael Owen's stables.
Returning to the Prix Ganay, another commentator offered a contrasting viewpoint: "I will side with the Arc winner Daryz for the Prix Ganay on Sunday – live on Sky Sports Racing. I’m abandoning my French fancy on Aventure after her disappointment last time." The panel also reflected on Daryz's recent form.
"Daryz had a great season last year, even though he disappointed in the Juddmonte International, and he salvaged his stallion credentials with a win in the Arc. I think he should beat this field on his seasonal debut, and Mickael Barzalona has a strong rapport with him. Even if his fitness isn’t perfect, he should still be competitive," one pundit argued. Further analysis noted the strategic positioning of Daryz: "It was great to look back at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe last year, having tipped Daryz as the winner.
He makes his seasonal reappearance today, and the vibe from recent interviews with Graffard has been somewhat negative. His main target will be the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot, so I think he is beatable today, but I’m not sure what the exact odds are. I’ll treat it as a watching brief based on what the connections have said so far." The conversation wrapped up with a reminder to viewers to never miss a story by following the latest racing news, interviews and features on their mobile devices. They encouraged fans to watch the full Weekend Winners programme on the At The Races YouTube channel, where the in‑depth analysis and expert opinions continue beyond the broadcast.
Overall, the panel painted a picture of a tightly contested Prix Ganay where Daryz enters as the clear favourite, yet several variables – including the potential resurgence of Aventure, the form of Graffard’s other runners, and the condition of the Longchamp turf – could influence the outcome. Bettors are advised to weigh the expert insights, consider each horse's recent performances, and stay alert for any last‑minute changes before placing their wagers on what promises to be a memorable early‑season Group 1 race.