Sprinters and stayers take centre stage on Sunday

Sunday’s card at ParisLongchamp will feature three top-class contests.

The Prix du Petit Couvert (Gr.3), run over 1,000 metres, will give the younger three-year-old generation the opportunity to take on their older rivals over this particularly demanding distance. Only three three-year-olds will line up, including two fillies who will benefit from a significant weight allowance.

In straight-course races, and particularly over 1,000 metres, the draw can play a crucial role, with the aim being to cover as little ground as possible. Last year’s winner, five-year-old Monteille, will return to defend her title. Twelve months ago, she prevailed after breaking from stall 1, closest to the rail. Among her rivals will once again be runner-up Rayevka, who has since secured a Group success of her own over this famous straight course, back in May.

Another highlight of the day will be the Dubaï Racing Carnival Prix du Pin (Gr.3), this time run over 1,400 metres. Just seven runners will go to post, including two carrying the colours of the same owner, Alain Jathière, although they are trained by two different professionals. Interestingly, his two representatives are at opposite ends of the age spectrum, with one aged three and the other eight.

Finally, at around 4.25pm, attention will turn to the Prix du Prince d’Orange, a Group 3 contest over 2,000 metres. The race promises to be particularly interesting, not least with the presence of Phineas, who represents Wertheimer & Frère, the owners of the Chanel fashion house. The colt is very much on an upward curve: unbeaten this year, he comes into the race on the back of several victories achieved in impressive fashion.

Daryzan will also be one to watch. He is a brother to Daryz, winner of the latest edition of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (Gr.1).