Kate Tracey, Callum Helliwell and Sam Boswell gathered on the Weekend Winners programme to dissect the most promising betting opportunities for a bustling weekend of flat racing both in Britain and on the continent. Their discussion covered everything from the sprint contests at Goodwood to the classic distance battles at Ascot, before turning their attention to the highlight of the French calendar: the Prix Ganay at Longchamp, slated for a 3:25 p.m. live broadcast on Sunday.
The Prix Ganay, a Group 1 test over ten furlongs, traditionally serves as the first major middle‑distance contest of the European season. 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 composed of six contenders, each hoping to secure a prestigious Group 1 victory and to establish themselves as serious prospects for the summer’s big prizes. Among the entries, the most talked‑about name is Daryz, the reigning champion of the Arc who returns under the guidance of trainer Francis‑Henri Graffard.
Daryz’s recent form includes a dominant performance in the Arc, but he also suffered a disappointing run in the Juddmonte International earlier in the season, leaving some observers uncertain about his readiness. Nevertheless, the panel agreed that Daryz remains the odds‑on favourite for the Ganay, largely because of his proven ability to stay the ten‑furlong distance and his strong partnership with jockey Mickael Barzalona, who has developed a keen rapport with the colt. Also lined up are Graffard’s other runners: Cualificar, Arrow Eagle and the filly Aventure.
Aventure’s recent résumé is a mixed bag. She endured a chaotic ride in the previous year’s Arc, where a wide draw and a frantic pace prevented her from settling, and she ultimately faded to the back of the field. Despite that setback, the panel noted that she has shown flashes of brilliance in earlier outings and that a more favourable trip could see her rebound. One of the analysts remarked, "She was far from disgraced behind Calandagan last season, which is rock‑solid form and 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 discussion also touched on the broader implications of the Ganay for the rest of the season. Daryz’s connections have hinted that his ultimate target may be the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot, making the Ganay a crucial stepping stone. Some panelists expressed caution, noting that Daryz’s fitness could be a concern after a relatively light prep season, but they also highlighted Barzalona’s skill in coaxing a strong finish from the colt. "He should be good enough on seasonal debut despite fitness not being on his side," one commentator said.
In contrast, Aventure is being positioned as a potential dark horse. The filly’s trainer believes that a change in tactics—perhaps a more restrained early pace and a better draw—could allow her to settle and unleash her turn of foot in the stretch. The panel agreed that if she can replicate the acceleration she displayed in her maiden win, she could pose a real threat to the male rivals, especially if the pace collapses early and the race becomes a sprint finish. Beyond the Ganay, the show also previewed several other headlines: Kevin Doyle, a former Premier League striker, is now pursuing a career as a jockey with ambitions at the Cheltenham Festival; Kalpana’s stunning victory over Calandagan in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes was highlighted as a major upset; and legendary jockey Ryan Moore was honoured with an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list.
The panel also touched on the upcoming Epsom Derby, where Aidan O'Brien will field a four‑horse team anchored by Benvenuto Cellini, and At The Races analyst Kevin Blake offered his selections for Derby day. In a more somber note, former jockey Levi Williams was sentenced to prison for the manslaughter of a pensioner after a violent incident outside a pub. Returning to the main story, the panelists reiterated their confidence in Daryz while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his fitness.
One commentator summed it up: "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." Another voice offered a more cautious perspective, noting the negative vibes from recent Sky Sports Racing interviews with Graffard: "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." In summary, the consensus among the Weekend Winners team is that Daryz enters the Prix Ganay as the clear favourite, but the race will not be a simple walkover. Aventure, Cualificar and Arrow Eagle could all exploit any tactical errors or a mis‑judged pace.
Betting enthusiasts are advised to consider both the form and the likely race dynamics when placing their wagers. Listeners are reminded that the full episode of Weekend Winners can be streamed on the At The Races YouTube channel, and they can stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews and feature stories by following the programme’s mobile app.