Victor Ludorum echoes Shamardal with superb G1 Poulains display

Victor Ludorum emulated his sire Shamardal as he stormed to an impressive success in the G1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains, the French 2,000 Guineas, at Deauville on Monday, 1 June.

While his father displayed his customary tenacity and courage when making all in the mile Classic in 2005, Victor Ludorum unleashed a sparkling turn of foot from the rear to record his second G1 win, following on from last season’s Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere.

The Andre Fabre-trained colt broke on terms and was covered up in eighth of the nine-strong field by Mickael Barzalona. He was switched to the stands’ rail with two furlongs to race and quickened smartly to hold every chance a furlong from home.

Victor Ludorum took up the running soon after and readily went clear in the closing stages to score by a length and a half over The Summit.

Lisa-Jane Graffard of Godolphin said: “We are delighted with the performance of Victor Ludorum, who left his comeback run in the Prix de Fontainebleau behind him and showed his best form.

“The G1 Prix du Jockey Club has always been Plan A for Victor Ludorum and we will see how he comes out of this race before confirming his next target. I am sure that Andre Fabre will want a chance to assess the horse over the coming days and discuss it with Sheikh Mohammed.”

Mickael Barzalona said: “Victor Ludorum went to the start really nicely, even though it was a straight mile canter down. I had thought we would go forward with him but the horse made up his own mind.

“He can be tricky before his races but is always straightforward once racing. Today he just got into the zone and ran his own race. He moved up very smoothly as he always quickens with ease. He is a straightforward colt and was very good today.”