The crowd at Lyon-Parilly buzzed with anticipation as trainers and jockeys readied their charges for a memorable afternoon of racing. Early smiles turned into quiet nods of satisfaction and occasional applause as familiar names and rising stars took to the turf and hurdles, each contest revealing its own drama. For some, it was a test of endurance; for others, a sprint to glory.
Prix du Pic du Midi Kicks Off the Afternoon
At 3:21 pm, the Prix du Pic du Midi set the tone over 3,400 metres with €26,000 at stake. La Valette, under J. Tanguy Andrieux for H. Merienne, showed early promise, while Laloi and Maohi kept the field honest. Consistent performer Allons A Vassy, guided by Tom Bourguigneau, made his presence felt, ensuring a competitive opening contest. Twickenham Park and Le Champ du Cygne rounded out a lively mix.
Stamina and Strategy in Prix du Mont Cindre
Next, the conditional hurdle Prix du Mont Cindre tested staying power over 3,400 metres (€24,000) at 3:53 pm. Lorenzo du Chenet clashed with Lemnos, with Libre Arbitre and Grey Fighter adding intrigue. James Reveley’s ride on Lettre Anonyme impressed observers, while Harry Gold and Lucky d’airy added further depth to a field stretching both stamina and nerves.
Endurance Showcased in Prix Faure Tourisme
Over 4,000 metres at 4:25 pm, the Prix Faure Tourisme demanded endurance. Karabi de Frégande (T. Sporli, E. Clayeux) and Shazam Ger (Charles Clayeux) starred, while Gentleman Valley, guided by Reveley for George & Zetterholm, provided proven class. The marathon test included High Hope, Risk du Brizais, Burgandy, and Jeune Soldat, all promising a tactical and gripping contest.
Flat Racing Highlights Young Talent
At 4:57 pm, the Prix de Saint-Cyr-les-Vignes (1,600m, €21,000) spotlighted emerging flat performers. Mirik, partnered by Mickael Barzalona for F.-H. Graffard, faced Inventer and The Jazz Singer, with Mon Paulin and Lommi rounding out the exciting lineup. Observers noted the potential for these young talents to make their mark in future events.
Mid-Card Battles: Gentianes and Mulatière
The Prix des Gentianes at 5:41 pm brought together promising fillies such as Zolina, Baleine, and Child of Vision. Later, the 2,200-metre Prix de la Mulatière (6:13 pm) offered tactical intrigue with Douriann leading the line against I’m A Believer and Teardrop Explodes, while Villa Darya, Seremini, and Wasabi kept things competitive.
Sprints Conclude the Day
Speedsters dominated the evening with the Prix Top World (1,350m, €15,600, 6:45 pm), featuring Yellow Hawk and Glamourdale at the forefront, joined by Dubalaa, Topaze Vendome, and Clavis Aurea. The final sprint, Prix Carrus (1,350m, €16,300, 7:17 pm), saw Flexibility, Breizh Moon, Rival Order, and Wakai Go Cze battle for honours, rounding off a card that showcased both talent and tactical nuance.
Lyon-Parilly’s 16 September meeting once again demonstrated the spectrum of France Galop racing, from staying hurdles to lightning-quick sprints, offering excitement for seasoned punters and casual fans alike.
Read the full race coverage on RaceBuzz.
