Matt Chapman talks all things Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, whips and Ploughing Championships in his latest column
Matt Chapman reckons one of Aidan O'Brien's runners had a big chance of making the frame in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe next Sunday
TO be the hunter or to be hunted? Circumstances decide the advantage.
That’s certainly the case when it comes to next Sunday’s Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and the participation of Order Of St George.
While Enable is a clear and worthy favourite for the Chantilly showpiece, Ballydoyle’s former Gold Cup hero is the each-way value.
For much of his career Order Of St George has been the hunter, stalking and then having to cut down rivals from off the pace.
In last year’s Arc Order Of St George was never able to get loose, finishing third behind stable companions Found and Highland Reel.
However, there was something super-cool about him when he turned into the hunted at The Curragh last time.
Matt Chapman's TV tips
- 2.00 Newmarket – Harbour Rock: ‘Can get back to winning ways here’
- 2.15 Newbury – My Dream Boat: ‘This is a winnable race for him’
- 2.35 Newmarket – Star Rock: ‘Been off for a while but progressive prior to that’
- 2.50 Newbury – Nebo: ‘Each-way chance on previous form’
- 3.10 Newmarket – Oceane: ‘Has every chance of a place’
- 3.25 Newbury – Silver Ghost: ‘Don’t think the handicapper has quite caught up just yet!’
- 4.00 Newbury – Cotai Glory: ‘A very talented horse on his day’
Kicked clear at the top of the straight by Ryan Moore, Order Of St George appeared to relish being allowed to run free and clear.
It’s hard to imagine a scenario where the five-year-old is held up off an Arc pace and manages to mow down Enable.
THERE are some who believe the whip should be banned in horse racing.
It’s become a pretty dull debate, but once again this week a world-class jockey revealed to us just how important the whip is.
Having landed the Grade 1 Natalma Stakes at Woodbine for Marco Botti on Capla Temptress, rider Joel Rosario said: “She was very nice. I had to tap her a little bit on the backside to get her attention. After that, she did the job.”
You can’t speak to a horse and tell it to run. The whip is part of the way a professional jockey transmits words.
Used correctly the air-cushioned whip is essential.
The Oaks, Irish Oaks and King George heroine sees out a mile and a half strongly and won’t be stopping given an advantage.
However, if Order Of St George was powered to the front off the home bend, and with his stamina guaranteed, he might just be a real tough nut to crack.
I HOSTED a tent at the Ploughing Championships in Ireland this week, and had a fabulous three days, getting to interview the likes of Ruby Walsh and Bryan Cooper.
Also on hand was former champion Davy Russell, who of course hasn’t had the best press of late after punch-gate.
Davy played a blinder and was a star from start to finish.
His most interesting revelation came when he told us his mother was engaged when she stumbled upon his dad! The rest, as they say, is history!
Being able to execute the plan does, of course, rely on George having the tactical pace to take a decent early position. But he is not devoid of speed.
Ridden positively Order Of St George will be nigh-on impossible to kick out of the first three.
I love Arc weekend and I’ll be there for all the action on Saturday and Sunday for At The Races. Join me on Sky 415.
