Thierry Jarnet says superstar Treve is in the form of her life ahead of their date with destiny in Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
The Criquette Head-Maarek-trained five-year-old, owned by Al Shaqab Racing, has looked imperious in her three races this season, most recently slamming her opponents in the Prix Vermeille by six lengths, and is odds-on with most firms to claim her third Arc.
Jarnet said: “When I rode Treve at the end of August she felt exceptional. But in her Arc prep race, the Vermeille, she was even better. She was fresh, so I had to keep a strong hold of her, but her acceleration was fabulous. I believe she is better than she has ever been – better than when she won her two Arcs.
“Treve has filled out, is stronger and, incredibly for a five-year-old, still maturing. She has a very good brain, takes her work very seriously and is a true professional in everything she does. If any horse deserves to be the first to win three Arcs, it is Treve.
“Her acceleration sets her apart from any other horse I have ridden. If she wins a third Arc she will become part of racing legend.”
Treve’s rivals in the Paris showpiece will include Prix du Jockey-Club victor New Bay, who posted a most impressive performance in his prep race in the Prix Niel, and the Aidan O’Brien-trained Found, runner-up to Golden Horn in the Irish Champion Stakes. A dry forecast could also see Golden Horn take his chance in the Arc.
For the full Thierry Jarnet interview see the October edition of Thoroughbred Owner & Breeder.
