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Ace Impact makes it six from six to win Arc de Triomphe / Photo: Dimitar DILKOFF - AFP
Ace Impact makes it six from six to win Arc de Triomphe
Favourite Ace Impact gave trainer Jean-Claude Rouget and jockey Cristian Demuro their second win in four years in Europe's most prestigious race the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on Sunday.
Demuro had trouble getting aboard the horse before the race but had no problems during it as he came home clear, the Italian rising out of the saddle to salute the crowd.
The packed stands were a stark contrast to Demuro and Rouget's victory with Sottsass in 2020 watched by just 1000 spectators due to Covid restrictions.
Once 31-year-old Demuro brought Ace Impact sweeping down the outside there was no argument over who the winner would be as he made it six wins from six runs.
"It is unbelievable, I am almost speechless," said Demuro.
"It is hard to put into words what this win is like compared to 2020 to win in front of so many people.
"He sprinted down the final straight like he wanted to go home! It is extraordinary to ride crack horses like this, it is just amazing."
For Rouget, who watched the race unfold from the parade ring in the shade as a rare occasion for an Arc the sun beat down, it was "a dream come true."
"It is huge this win," he said after escaping the hugs of the owners.
"To win like that you have to have everything right the horse was in magnificent form up to the race."
English challenger Westover improved on his sixth from last year to finish second with wide outsider Onesto taking third.
There was a great run from the sole Japanese runner Through Seven Seas, who plugged on to take fourth.
For Frankie Dettori there was to be no record-extending seventh Arc win as his final ride in the race Free Wind was never in the hunt.
Still the irrepressible Italian looked on the bright side having won the race on some legendary horses such as Golden Horn and two-time champion Enable.
"I really enjoyed it," said the 52-year-old.
"The Arc has been a great race for me and I am bowing out with a smile on my face.
"This morning I was sad, now after three rides I feel the adrenaline kicking in, we'll miss it.
"I really enjoyed it.
"Six Arc wins, what can you say, some great champions, and riding in 34 Arcs is a record in itself."
Of the other fancied horses the racing world must wait for another time to see if a St Leger winner can add the Arc in the same season.
Aidan O'Brien's St Leger winner Continuous finished fifth.
X.Herrmann--BlnAP
