In what will be remembered as one of the most dramatic finishes in the storied history of the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, the brilliant Daryz produced a stunning late surge to deny Minnie Hauk at the death in Europe's most prestigious horse race.
A Photo Finish for the Ages
The €5 million showpiece at ParisLongchamp delivered pure theatre as the Christopher Head-trained Daryz, under a perfectly timed ride from Cristian Demuro, overhauled the gutsy Minnie Hauk in the final fifty metres. Just when it seemed the German challenger had done enough, Daryz found extra gears in the dying strides to secure victory by the narrowest of margins.
"I couldn't believe we got there," an elated Demuro confessed after the race. "For a moment I thought we'd left it too late, but this horse has such courage. He never knows when he's beaten."
Tactical Masterclass at ParisLongchamp
The race unfolded as a tactical affair with early fractions slower than anticipated. As the field turned for home, last year's winner Ace Impact set down his challenge, but it was Minnie Hauk who initially appeared to have stolen a winning advantage under jockey Bauyrzhan Murzabayev.
Meanwhile, Demuro had bided his time aboard the 7-2 shot Daryz, weaving through traffic before unleashing his challenge down the centre of the track. The pair collared Minnie Hauk in the shadow of the post, with the judge requiring several minutes to confirm the result.
Training Triumph for Christopher Head
For trainer Christopher Head, the victory represented a career-defining moment. "This is what we work for every day," he beamed. "Daryz has been building toward this all season. To win the Arc, there's no greater feeling in racing."
The victory continues a remarkable season for the Head stable, cementing their status among Europe's elite training operations.
What Next for the Arc Heroes?
While connections of the valiant Minnie Hauk were left heartbroken by the narrow defeat, both horses emerged with their reputations enhanced. Racing fans can now look forward to potential rematches in upcoming international fixtures, though connections will first allow their champions to recover from their ParisLongchamp exertions.
For one glorious afternoon in Paris, Daryz confirmed his place among the thoroughbred greats, delivering a performance that will be replayed and remembered for generations to come.
