Inspiral made a triumphant return to her peak form as she successfully defended her title in the Prix du Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard Jacques le Marois at Deauville. After a disappointing showing in the Sussex Stakes just eleven days prior, the John and Thady Gosden-trained filly had something to prove on the Normandy coast.
Frankie Dettori, showing masterful restraint, guided Inspiral through the early stages of the race while the frontrunner, Big Rock, surged ahead. Dettori's skillful handling of the Cheveley Park-owned four-year-old came into play when he executed a brilliant maneuver, switching to the opposite side of the track as the race unfolded.
In his final season as a jockey, Dettori described winning the Prix Jacques le Marois as a dream come true, especially aboard Inspiral. As the finish line approached, Big Rock maintained his lead, but Inspiral and Triple Time were closing in. Though Triple Time couldn't sustain the challenge, Inspiral powered ahead and crossed the line, securing her first victory of the season.
This victory marked Dettori's and the Clarehaven team's fourth consecutive win in Deauville's prestigious race. For the 52-year-old Italian jockey, it was his eighth and final triumph in the event, as he prepares to retire at the end of the season.
This race was won by such stars as Dubawi, Dubai Millennium, Lyphard, Kenmare, Lear Jet, Goldikova, Kingman, Ribchester, Palace Pier and so many others. It's one of the great races in Europe to win.
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