aventure Shines Brightly in Qatar Prix Vermeille, Surpassing Whirl
In a remarkable turnaround from the previous year, Aventure secured her inaugural triumph in the esteemed Qatar Prix Vermeille at ParisLongchamp. Meanwhile, Whirl’s performance fell significantly short of expectations.
Whirl’s Struggles Create Possibility for Aventure
Whirl, trained by Aidan O’Brien and recognized as the Oaks runner-up with two group one victories to her name, was widely regarded as a top contender for this season’s Arc. However, after jockey christophe Soumillon pushed her wide early on and she briefly took control entering the final furlong, Whirl faded sharply to finish near the rear of the pack.
This unexpected downturn opened the door for Christophe Ferland’s four-year-old filly Aventure to seize victory. Guided skillfully by maxime Guyon-who kept her strategically close to the front runners throughout-the filly exhibited both tactical speed and enduring stamina.
A Strong Finish Fuels Ambitions for The Arc
In the closing stretch, when urged forward decisively, Aventure pulled away convincingly from Gezora-the French Oaks winner trained by Francis-Henri Graffard-crossing several lengths clear. This commanding win has raised hopes that she will continue improving and pose a serious challenge at ParisLongchamp next month.
“She delivered an extraordinary performance; we were uncertain about how competitive the Irish fillies would be today,” said Ferland. “Maxime rode with confidence all race long and when space opened up down the straight she accelerated powerfully. I’m very pleased with her.”
Strategic Planning Targets Peak Form at Longchamp
“Securing a Group One victory was always our objective,” Ferland remarked. “Now that milestone is behind us.”
“Looking ahead to The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in four weeks: I expect she’ll show even greater enhancement then.”
“Aventure typically reaches peak condition during summer months starting June or July,” he explained further. “Today’s firm ground suited her perfectly; if similar or softer conditions prevail on Arc day, I anticipate an equally strong or superior effort.”
“She possesses exceptional heart-calm yet focused-with an ideal temperament for training,” Ferland concluded. “The wait until The Arc will feel long but we remain optimistic about what lies ahead.”
Gezora Demonstrates Encouraging Form Despite Loss
The trainer Francis-Henri Graffard expressed satisfaction with Gezora’s return performance: “Considering tough competition today, it was a solid comeback.”
Mickael Barzalona found it arduous to overtake Aventure but noted his mount finished strongly despite a mid-race slowdown.
“gezora is straightforward and clearly stays well over 1½ miles,” Graffard commented. “We’ll consult with owners regarding future plans but aim for another start within four weeks-either targeting Prix de l’Opera or stepping up into the arc.”
I personally lean towards The Arc-it appears wide open this year,” he added.
