You are here

Victor Ludorum swoops to victory in G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere

Racenews

Victor Ludorum added his name to an outstanding group of two-year-old Shamardal colts this season with an impressive victory in the mile G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp, France, on Sunday, 6 October.

Making his Pattern-race debut following two easy wins in lesser company, Victor Ludorum was soon settled in fourth of the seven runners by Mickael Barzalona.

The Andre Fabre-trained colt travelled strongly into the race and displayed a sparkling turn of foot entering the final furlong. He collared long-time leader Alson with just under half a furlong to race before readily quickening away to score by three-quarters of a length in 1m 44.15s on very soft ground.

Victor Ludorum is the third unbeaten Godolphin juvenile sired by Shamardal to win a G1 race this year, following brilliant Vincent O’Brien National Stakes scorer Pinatubo and Earthlight, who captured both the Darley Prix Morny and Middle Park Stakes.

Andre Fabre said: “I was very impressed with Victor Ludorum because of his style – he is a very easy-going horse, who never shows much but is quiet and relaxed. He is easy to ride, like all the good horses.

“He is not too big, not too small and everything is neat. He has a beautiful action and, if I would dare, I would say that he is a bit of a Mill Reef type horse.

“We will obviously have to discuss things with Sheikh Mohammed, who has a good bunch of two-year-olds. Personally, I would aim Victor Ludorum at a French Classic campaign, with the French Guineas (Poule d’Essai des Poulains) and the Prix du Jockey Club.”