QATAR PRIX DE LA FORET

(GROUP 1)

ANOTHER outstanding performance at Chantilly last Sunday was put up by Limato in the Qatar Prix de la Foret. He was a slightly unlucky second in the race last year and pulverised the opposition this time, coming home three lengths clear of the runner-up and giving Harry Bentley what can safely be described as an armchair ride.

The first three past the post in this Group 1 were all geldings and youngish ones so they should be around for a few more years to thrill racing enthusiasts.

The odds-on favourite had a beautiful run over the seven furlongs. Handy early on, the Tagula sired four-year-old was in command just inside the two furlong marker and drew away to defeat the longtime leader and 40/1 chance Karar with Suedois half a length back in third place.

Then came the French three-year-old colts, both previous group winners, Jimmy Two Times and Attendu.

Limato has had a fine season for Henry Candy. A first Group 1 went his way at Newmarket in the Darley July Cup and the five-furlong trip was a little sharp when he went under to Mecca’s Angel in the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes at York.

A delighted Bentley jumped off his brilliant partner and reported: “That was incredible and what acceleration.”

Candy added: “Limato is a good reason for getting up in the morning. There was a good leader and he relaxed before winning very easily. We will now have to consider the Breeders’ Cup and my preference would be for the Mile not the Sprint.”

Francis Graffard said : “This second place was like a victory. Karar needs good ground to show his best. I was impressed by the way he kept going after being passed by Limato.”

David O’Meara was delighted with Suedois: “That’s the fifth time he’s been involved in a Group 1 finish this season and now we’re going for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.”