Impressive Victory for Inspiral and Dettori in Prix Jacques le Marois
Inspiral Bounces Back to Defend Title in Prestigious French Race
Inspiral showcased her true potential once again, reclaiming her crown in the highly anticipated Prix du Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard Jacques le Marois at Deauville. The talented filly, trained by John and Thady Gosden, had a point to prove after a disappointing performance in the Sussex Stakes just 11 days prior.
Ridden with finesse by renowned jockey Frankie Dettori, Inspiral waited patiently as Big Rock dominated the front end of the race. Dettori’s masterful ride took them across the track from their original starting position, strategically placing themselves for an explosive finish.
As they entered the final furlong, it was Big Rock who still led the pack. However, Inspiral and Triple Time were hot on his heels. Despite Triple Time unable to sustain his challenge from Royal Ascot glory earlier this season, Inspiral surged forward with incredible power and crossed the finish line victorious.
This triumph marked Dettori’s eighth win overall in this prestigious event and served as a bittersweet farewell as he prepares to retire at season’s end. Speaking about his last ride amidst an adoring crowd at Deauville, he expressed his gratitude for such a memorable moment: “To win on your last ride in front of such a beautiful public is fantastic.”
Dettori also paid tribute to legendary jockey Yves Saint-Martin who graced Deauville that day: “It’s all credit to the filly. She has her moments but I looked after her as I knew today was the day.”
Reflecting on his previous winners in this renowned mile contest, Dettori made a notable comparison: “Dubai Millennium was the best of the lot and while she’s not as good, remember only champions win this race.”
The Gosden team has established a remarkable connection with Deauville over the years. Having trained Palace Pier to victory in 2020 and 2021, along with Kingman in 2014, their success continued with Inspiral’s impressive win. John Gosden now sets his sights on competing at Santa Anita for the Breeders’ Cup alongside Frankel’s talented daughter.
Gosden expressed his fondness for Deauville’s straight track and its fair competition: “I like it because there are usually no hard luck stories.” He also praised Inspiral’s brilliance when conditions align: “She can be brilliant on her day. When Frankie took her to the front he looked after her.”
Betfair has adjusted their odds following Inspiral’s triumph, offering favorable chances for success at both California’s Breeders’ Cup Mile and Newmarket’s Sun Chariot Stakes. The Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot is another thrilling possibility.
The Big Rock camp gracefully accepted defeat, recognizing that they were bested by a superior opponent. Christopher Head stated without excuses: “He has run a very good race and been beaten by a better horse.”