Vicomtesse Vigier: A new set of duettists

Monday, May 24, 2021, ParisLongchamp Racecourse (Paris). - The 158th edition of the Prix Vicomtesse Vigier (Gr2) turned into an intriguing duel between two staying rising stars. Impressive winner of the Prix de Barbeville (Gr3) for his debut on such a long trip, on this very course and distance, Skazino (Kendargent) took over the front-running Karlarina (Le Havre), whom he had trailed since the start, as they started to accelerate in the last straight. Slowly driven into contention by Christophe Soumillon, Valia (Sea the Stars) swiftly followed him then. They were soon the only left in contention for the victory and although she tried to build some challenge one out, Valia was never in a position to make up enough ground on the favourite, who won by two lengths, as The Grand Visir (Frankel) was leading the field in 3rd at 6 lengths.

Two exceptional stayers seem to embark on a long journey that could turn into a fascinating duel throughout the season. A brother to International campaigner Skalleti, Skazino is trained in Provence by Cédric Rossi for the Haras de la Gousserie. Even if his rival was running for the first time this season, this important test is now well passed as Valia has already proven herself at the top of the staying division in Euope: last year, the Aga Khan filly beat the top staying 3-year-olds in the Prix Chaudenay (Gr2) and went on to finish 2nd to British raider Subjectivist in the Prix Royal-Oak (Gr1).

Skazino was bred by Guy Pariente, who sold him for € 22,000 as a yearling at Deauville. Skazino was later unsold at €150,000 € at the Arc sale,