Daryz leads 19 horses left in the Arc A total of 19 horses remain in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp following Monday’s first forfeit stage. They include last year’s winner Daryz for Francis-Henri Graffard and the William Haggas-trained Maltese Cross, who was runner-up in the Derby and won the Grand Prix de Paris over the Arc course and distance. Graffard and the Aga Khan Studs have an interesting second string to their bow in the shape of Prix Niel scorer Varandir, whose only defeat to date came in the Grand Prix de Paris, for which he was favourite. British and Irish Challengers Hold Firm Kalpana has stood her ground for Andrew Balding after a stellar season highlighted by victory in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes, with Oaks heroine Thundering On remaining in contention for Joseph O’Brien. Diamond Necklace is one of three for Aidan O’Brien, along with Benvenuto Cellini and Minnie Hauk, who found only Daryz too good 12 months ago. Runaway Coronation Cup winner Bay City Roller is still in for George Scott, while Roger Varian has recent German Group One winner Saddadd engaged.
