Kate Tracey, Callum Helliwell and Sam Boswell gather on the Weekend Winners programme to dissect the most compelling betting opportunities as the racing calendar heats up both domestically and abroad. As the broadcast draws to a close, the trio turn their attention to the upcoming Prix Ganay, a Group 1 contest that will be streamed live from Longchamp in Paris at 3:25 p.m. on Sunday.
The race, last year won by the future Arc‑third placer Sosie, now assembles a six‑horse field to contest the ten‑furlong test for top‑class glory. Among the entrants is Daryz, who arrived in peak condition for the previous season’s French showcase and now returns under the tutelage of trainer Francis‑Henri Graffard. He will be joined by Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the mare Aventure, each hoping to upset the favourite. One of the panelists explained his strategy, saying, "I’m backing Daryz in the Prix Ganay despite the fact that he lost to my pick in his final run last season.
Aventure is also in the field, but she had a disastrous run in the Arc last year – a wide draw and a frantic pace prevented her from settling, and she ended up sinking through the pack like a stone dropped in water." He continued, "She was far from a disgrace 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, she could shed the weight of that previous disappointment and bounce back to her best form." The discussion then shifted to the broader racing landscape. The hosts reminded listeners that all the latest news, interviews and feature stories are available on mobile devices, encouraging fans to stay connected for real‑time updates.
Another commentator added his perspective: "I’ll be siding with Daryz, the Arc winner, for the Prix Ganay on Sunday – the race will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. I’m abandoning my French fancy on Aventure after her let‑down last time." The programme also highlighted other upcoming events: the Seven Questions segment and Dyonisos contesting the Silver Trophy at Ripon, a stylish Classic Trial win by Derby hopeful Raaheeb at Sandown, and Opera Ballo’s triumph over Field Of Gold in a mile‑long showdown. In the jumps arena, trainer Dan Skelton expressed pride in his championship‑winning team, while further coverage was promised from Doncaster, Chepstow and Fontwell. A notable story featured Luke Littler and Stephen Bunting entering racehorse ownership at Michael Owen’s stables, illustrating the growing appeal of the sport beyond the track.
Returning to the Prix Ganay, a panelist praised Daryz’s previous season, noting, "He had a stellar campaign last year, even though he fell short in the Juddmonte International, and he capped his career with an Arc victory. I believe he should dominate this field on his seasonal debut, especially with Mickael Barzalona riding him so well. Even if his fitness isn’t perfect, his class should see him through." The conversation also reflected on the Arc of the previous year, where Daryz was the winning pick. The commentator remarked, "Looking back at last year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, I correctly tipped Daryz as the winner.
He’s back on the scene today, but the vibe from recent Sky Sports Racing interviews with Graffard has been rather negative." He added, "His main target for the season will be the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, so I suspect he may be vulnerable today. I’m not certain what to expect, but I’ll treat it as a watching brief given the comments from his connections." Overall, the panel emphasized that the Prix Ganay offers a tantalising blend of proven talent and potential upsets. Daryz’s proven class, combined with Barzalona’s adept handling, makes him a strong contender, while Aventure’s redemption story could provide an intriguing subplot if she manages to overcome last year’s misfortune.
Meanwhile, the other runners – Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the stable mate Calandagan – each bring their own credentials, ensuring a competitive finish. Listeners were encouraged to watch the full Weekend Winners episode on the At The Races YouTube channel, where they can catch the in‑depth analysis, hear the experts’ final picks and stay up to date with the ever‑evolving world of horse racing. The show promises to keep fans informed and entertained as the weekend’s top races unfold across the globe.