Kate Tracey, Callum Helliwell and Sam Boswell gather on the Weekend Winners programme to dissect the most promising betting strategies for an action‑packed racing weekend both at home and overseas. As the broadcast draws to a close, the trio turn their attention to Sunday’s Prix Ganay, a Group 1 contest that will be transmitted live from Longchamp in Paris at 3:25 p.m. The race, which was won last season by Sosie—who later finished third in the Arc—features a field of six horses contesting the ten‑furlong distance for top‑class glory. After a brilliant performance in the previous year’s Arc, Daryz is back under the tutelage of Francis‑Henri Graffard, joining the likes of Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and Aventure, all of whom have been earmarked as potential challengers.
One of the panelists admits, “I’m backing the favourite Daryz in the Prix Ganay despite the fact he was beaten by my own pick in his last outing of the previous season. Aventure is also in the mix, but she suffered a disastrous run in the Arc last year. She was drawn wide, never settled and essentially sank through the field like a heavy stone in water.
"She was far from disgraceful behind Calandagan last season—Calandagan is a rock‑solid performer and the stable companion of the favourite. If Aventure is fit and eager this time, I think she will rebound to form today.” The show also reminds viewers that the latest racing news, interviews and feature pieces are always just a tap away on mobile devices, encouraging fans to stay up‑to‑date with every development.
Another voice on the panel declares, “I’ll be backing the Arc winner Daryz for the Prix Ganay on Sunday – the race will be shown live on Sky Sports Racing. I’m abandoning my French fancy in Aventure after her previous disappointment.
In other racing headlines, Kalpana edged out Calandagan in a thrilling King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, while legendary jockey Ryan Moore was honoured with an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list. The Derby field sees Benvenuto Cellini leading a four‑horse Aidan O'Brien contingent at Epsom, and Kevin Blake of At The Races offers his tip sheet for Derby day. Off‑track news includes former jockey Levi Williams being sentenced for the manslaughter of a pensioner after a pub‑side altercation, and Andrew Balding expressing confidence in Item’s stamina ahead of the Epsom Classic. Returning to the Prix Ganay, a commentator notes, “Daryz enjoyed an outstanding campaign last year, even though he fell short in the Juddmonte International.
He rescued his stud prospects with a win in the Arc, and I expect him to dominate this field on his seasonal debut. Mickael Barzalona has a strong rapport with the horse, and despite any fitness concerns, Daryz should be a top contender. "Reflecting on last year’s Arc, where I correctly tipped Daryz as the winner, the atmosphere around his return has been mixed. Interviews on Sky Sports Racing with Francis‑Henri Graffard have been somewhat negative, perhaps hinting at lingering doubts.
"His main objective for the season will be the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, so today’s race may be a stepping‑stone rather than a final target. That said, I’m not certain how the connections will approach the race; for now I’ll adopt a watching brief and see how the horse responds on the day.” The Prix Ganay, held over ten furlongs on the renowned Longchamp turf, often serves as a key early‑season test for middle‑distance horses aiming for the summer’s elite contests.
Historically, winners have gone on to claim further Group 1 honours, making this a pivotal race for trainers and owners alike. Daryz, a proven performer at the highest level, carries the weight of expectation, while Aventure hopes to rewrite her narrative after a lackluster Arc performance. Key factors to consider include the draw, ground conditions, and the pace scenario. A wide draw can be a disadvantage at Longchamp, especially if the early fractions are brisk.
Conversely, a front‑running style may benefit a horse like Daryz, who thrives when able to dictate tempo. Jockey Barzalona’s tactical acumen will be crucial in positioning his mount to avoid traffic and conserve energy for a decisive finish.
Aventure’s connections will likely aim to settle her early, avoiding the chaos that plagued her previous run. If she can secure a comfortable spot behind the leaders and unleash her turn of foot in the straight, she could pose a genuine threat, especially if the pace softens and the field bunched up. Other entrants—Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the stablemate Calandagan—each bring their own strengths. Cualificar has shown consistency over similar distances, while Arrow Eagle possesses a strong finishing kick that could prove decisive in a tightly contested finish.
Calandagan, having demonstrated solid form alongside Daryz, may act as a pacemaker or even challenge for the win if the race unfolds favorably. Betting markets will likely reflect Daryz’s status as favourite, with odds shortening as the start time approaches. However, value may be found in the place market for Aventure, especially if she receives a favourable draw and the race tempo suits her.
Exotic bets such as exactas or trifectas could offer attractive returns given the depth of the field and the potential for upsets. In summary, the Prix Ganay promises a compelling clash between a proven Group 1 winner and a group of hungry challengers seeking to make their mark early in the season. Whether Daryz confirms his top‑rank status or an underdog like Aventure stages a comeback will be the story to watch on Sunday’s live broadcast.
Viewers can catch all the action on Sky Sports Racing, and a full replay will be available on the At The Races YouTube channel for those who miss the live feed.