Daryz, the distinguished dual winner of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, came off a historic second career victory in Europe’s premier competition on Sunday at the Long Champs in Paris.
Renowned for his excellent footwork, Daryz echoed his sea father Stella, combining class with mobility to excel in high-altitude terrain and terrain. He retires as a six-hour group winner, including four victories at Group 1 level from nine to 12 furlongs.
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Daryz is the first colt in almost half a century to achieve back-to-back Arcas victories, joining an illustrious roll of honor that includes Ksar (1921-1922), Tantieme (1950-1951), Ribot (1955-1956) and Alleged (1977-1978) – all of whom later became influential horses.
Representing a combination of two of Europe’s best bloodlines, Daryz follows in the footsteps of Star of the Sea, who won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe 17 years ago over a memorable weekend that also saw his mother Daryakana take victory in the Prix de Royallieu. This top-class mare later took on the Group 1 Hong Kong Vase and has since established herself as one of the outstanding machines of her generation, producing seven Palos horses with two Group 1 winners. The filly Daryaba herself is a 3-year-old champion, winner of both the Pres de Diane and the Prix Vermeille.
Daryz also represents a good outcome, with free pedigree from Danehill, Dubawi and Sadler’s Well.
Owner/bred Princess Zahra Aga Khan said after the homebred’s first Arc de Triomphe: “As a stallion, and as part of a legacy that stretches back more than a century, this breed can achieve great heights.”
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Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard stated earlier this year: “Daryz has a sharper and more explosive acceleration. Since I started to train, Daryz is clearly one of the best horses I have been responsible for. I am lucky to work with many very good horses, but he is really excellent, beautifully trained, with a remarkable body, especially the hindquarters.”
Racer Mickaël Barzalona, who has partnered him for all nine career victories, said: “He is the type of horse every racecar dreams of riding. He is a force of nature with a superb engine.”
Daryz is now embarking on a new chapter in his history as part of the ags Khan Studs shooting roster. More details on the study arrangements will be announced in due course.
This story was first published by Paulick Report on the 9th of October News section Add the Paulck Report as Preferred Source by clicking here.