Kate Tracey, Callum Helliwell and Sam Boswell gather on the Weekend Winners programme to dissect the most promising betting opportunities as the racing calendar heats up both domestically and internationally. Their lively discussion covers everything from early‑season sprints to the looming Group 1 contests that will shape the rest of the year.
As the broadcast draws to a close, the trio turns their attention to the upcoming Prix Ganay, a prestigious ten‑furlong contest that will be staged at Longchamp in Paris on Sunday at 3:25 p.m. live on Sky Sports Racing. The race, traditionally a key early‑season test for middle‑distance horses, will feature six contenders all seeking to claim Group 1 glory and to set the tone for the spring campaign.
Last year the race was won by Sosie, a colt who later proved his class by finishing third in the legendary Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. This year, the field is anchored by the reigning champion Daryz, who returns under the guidance of trainer Francis‑Henri Graffard.
Daryz, who topped the betting in the Arc and delivered a strong performance in the Juddmonte International, is expected to be the favorite once again. Among his rivals are Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the mare Aventure, each of whom brings a distinct set of credentials to the contest. The panelists share their personal takes on the race. One commentator admits, "I am taking on the favourite Daryz in the Prix Ganay on Sunday, even though he beat my selection in his most recent performance last season.
Aventure lines up here and she had a nightmare of a race in the Arc last year. Drawn wide and keen she never got a chance to settle, and she dropped through the field like a heavy stone in water. She was far from disgraced behind Calandagan last season which is rock solid form who is the stable companion to the favourite. She gets weight off the boys this time around and, if she is fit and raring to go, I think she will bounce back to form today." The speaker continues, emphasizing that Aventure's poor showing in the Arc should not define her future prospects.
"She was far from disgraced behind Calandagan last season, a horse with rock‑solid form who often serves as a pacemaker for the stable favourite. If the trainer eases her up a little and she arrives at Longchamp in good condition, I expect her to rebound and be a serious threat." In contrast, another pundit declares his allegiance to Daryz: "I will be siding with the Arc winner Daryz for the Prix Ganay on Sunday – live on Sky Sports Racing.
I'm deserting my French fancy in Aventure after her disappointment last time." The discussion then shifts to other racing news. The 2000 Guineas scene sees Gstaad reinstated into the Newmarket mix after an administrative error by Aidan O'Brien, while Sky Sports Racing’s daily schedule includes the Seven Questions segment and the Dyonisos contest for the Silver Trophy at Ripon. At Sandown, Derby hopeful Raaheeb delivers a stylish performance in a Classic Trial, and Opera Ballo thwarts Field Of Gold in a mile showdown. In the jumps arena, trainer Dan Skelton expresses pride in his championship‑winning team, and the day’s card features action at Doncaster, Chepstow and Fontwell.
Returning to the Prix Ganay, the panel reflects on Daryz's recent form. "Daryz had a great season last year, even though he did disappoint in the Juddmonte International, and saved his stallion career with victory in the Arc.
I think he should be beating this field on seasonal debut and Mickael Barzalona gets on really well with him. He should be good enough on seasonal debut despite fitness not being on his side," one analyst notes. The jockey’s rapport with the horse is highlighted as a key factor that could offset any lingering fitness concerns.
Another voice adds perspective on the broader picture: "It was great to look back on the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe last year, having tipped up the winner in Daryz. He makes his seasonal reappearance today and the vibes from interviews on Sky Sports Racing from Francis‑Henri Graffard have been negative. His main target will be the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot so I think he is beatable today, but I don't know what with.
I think it will be just a watching brief for me with what connections have said so far." The conversation underscores that while Daryz is the clear market favorite, the race is far from a foregone conclusion. Factors such as ground conditions, the pace scenario set by the pacemakers, and the fitness of each contender will play decisive roles. Aventure, despite her previous misfortune, could benefit from a more favorable draw and a race that suits her late‑running style. Cualificar and Arrow Eagle, both younger horses with improving form, may also spring a surprise if they find the right rhythm.
Beyond the immediate contest, the Prix Ganay serves as a crucial stepping stone toward the spring classics and the Royal Ascot meeting. A strong performance here can catapult a horse into the spotlight for the Prince of Wales's Stakes, the Coronation Cup, or even a repeat attempt at the Arc later in the season.
Trainers will be watching closely to gauge how their charges handle the ten‑furlong test, especially after the winter break. For punters, the race offers several betting angles: backing Daryz at short odds for a simple win, considering an each‑way place bet given his proven class, or exploring a place‑only market on the outsiders if the pace unfolds in their favour. Exotic bets such as exactas or trifectas could be attractive, particularly if the panel’s speculation about Aventure’s resurgence holds true.
Listeners are reminded to stay updated with the latest racing news, interviews and feature stories via the dedicated app, ensuring they never miss a beat in the fast‑moving world of thoroughbred sport. The Weekend Winners programme will continue to provide expert analysis, behind‑the‑scenes insights and live coverage throughout the weekend’s racing calendar.
Finally, the show encourages viewers to watch the full episode on the At The Races YouTube channel, where the panel’s full discussion, additional interviews and race replays are available for those who want a deeper dive into the strategies and storylines shaping this exciting weekend of horse racing.