Sea the Stars victory at Longchamp

The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is held at the famous Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, every year, and is one of the most prestigious horse racing events on the racing calendar. Many international contenders have found world wide fame at this event, and this year was no different. The fabulous Sea the Stars gave spectators a wonderful performance and delivered a breathtaking performance, to become the 2009 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe champion. His victory on Sunday, 4 October 2009, also led to him creating history, becoming the first horse to win the Epsom Derby, the 2 000 Guineas and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

Racing talent is most definitely in the genes of Sea the Stars, with his dam, Urban Sea, winning the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 1993. Sired by Cape Cross and trained by John Oxx, Sea the Stars has now enjoyed six consecutive Group 1 victories, with the only race he has ever lost, being his first career start, in Ireland, last year. Mick Kinane piloted Sea the Stars to victory, which seems to have been the perfect team combination for the event.

Sea the Stars bolted from the starting gates at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with much enthusiasm, and once Mick Kinane had managed to settle him down next to the rail, worry began to creep over fans and spectators, as they could not see how Sea the Stars would be able to make a break from the position he was in. But the veteran jockey was not stressed at all, as he knew what Sea the Stars was capable of. Waiting patiently for a gap to open up, Kinane and Sea the Stars grabbed it the moment it came, and began powering their way to the lead position. Sea the Stars won the event by two lengths, delivering a devastating blow to Youmzain, who had to settle for second position for the third year in a row.

What the future might hold for Sea the Stars, is uncertain. No decisions have been made as yet, to whether he will race again and John Orr commented that options are still to be discussed. About the race, John Orr commented that he only had admiration for the fiery three year old, and was extremely excited to have been a part of this wonderful athlete’s career.