Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

by Sarah & Trevor Crawley

It’s taken us a while to book our trip to Longchamp for the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe. We don’t know why, as it’s on our racing wish list, but when we saw Highclere were offering a trip, we thought why not do it in style. We could have booked it and gone on our own, but going with like-minded people felt a much better idea.

The trip was really well organised. Our hotel was in a great position, appropriately very close to the Arc de Triomphe. Watching the traffic there was both fascinating and terrifying.

We had plenty of spare time to explore the Champs Elysees and take in the atmosphere.

On Saturday evening we were treated to an entertaining preview show followed by a dinner with Highclere friends hosted by Ruby Walsh.

Trevor and Sarah Crawley

Claire Goodwin, Ruby Walsh with Sarah Crawley

When we visit a new track the first thing we like to do is take in the panoramic view of the course. Longchamp didn’t disappoint. The track looked in amazing condition. The backdrop of autumnal trees and Parisian buildings was beautiful. We were definitely blessed with the weather compared to the heavy rain of last year.

Longchamp racecourse

Our hospitality marquee provided a welcome base, and our tickets gave us great access around the course. We had a good choice of viewing and were able to get up close to the horses as they made their way out on to the track.

It goes without saying the racing was top class. We enjoyed seeing so many runners from the UK although sadly no winners. Sarah did back Daryz, the winner of the Arc, made all the sweeter as she used the free bet we were given as part of our hospitality package. Pomp and ceremony played a big part in the winner’s presentation, very different to our big races.

All in all, we had a great time and ticked another big race day off our list.

We’ve been with Highclere for three seasons and we’ve been very lucky with our horses. Our highlights to date have been three visits to Royal Ascot, one of them a winner with Soprano, and Drama winning the Kempton Sprint Series Final two years in a row.