"From Royal Ascot Triumph to French Challenge: Charyn Aims for Prix Jacques le Marois Victory"
Charyn claimed an emphatic first Group One victory in Royal Ascot’s Queen Anne.
Charyn Poised for Prix Jacques le Marois Glory as Roger Varian Eyes Continued Success
As the Prix Jacques le Marois approaches this Sunday at Deauville, all eyes are on Charyn, the four-year-old star trained by Roger Varian. Following a spectacular season, Charyn is in peak condition and ready to take on France’s prestigious Group One challenge. The Nurlan Bizakov-owned son of Dark Angel has dazzled this year, with a string of impressive performances, including a recent Royal Ascot triumph.
Charyn’s journey this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. The campaign began with a commanding victory in the Listed Doncaster Mile, which was quickly followed by a Group Two win at Sandown. Although he finished behind Audience in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, Charyn bounced back with a resounding success in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot. His victory there, where he comfortably outpaced Docklands, marked his first Group One win and showcased his potential to an international audience.
Roger Varian, speaking to Sky Sports Racing, expressed his confidence and satisfaction with Charyn’s condition. “We’re very happy with Charyn and all set to go – we’re looking forward to it,” Varian said. “He’s really grown into himself this year, and it seems like he’s the finished article now. We’re thrilled with his performances and hope to keep this momentum going into the latter part of the season.”
The trainer also highlighted Charyn’s progression from his previous form. “We always rated him highly and campaigned him accordingly last year,” Varian noted. “But he seems to have found another level this year. He’s a big horse and has taken time to fully mature. Now, he’s living up to the expectations we always had for him.”
Reflecting on Charyn’s journey, Varian recalled the significance of his Listed victory at Doncaster earlier in the year. “It was crucial for him to get his head in front,” Varian said. “He came through that race strongly and has continued to improve. Winning a Group One at Royal Ascot is a remarkable achievement, and to see him dominate the final two furlongs was particularly satisfying.”
Varian’s focus on the Prix Jacques le Marois, rather than the Sussex Stakes, underscores his commitment to Charyn’s preparation. “We decided early on that Deauville would be his next target,” Varian explained. “We’ve tailored his training for this race and he’s in excellent shape. Charyn is a very relaxed and laid-back horse, which should help him handle the journey and the race itself.”
Despite the strong competition, including the two-time Prix Jacques le Marois winner Inspiral and the talented French horse Haatem, Varian remains confident in Charyn’s ability. “It’s always a strong race,” Varian admitted. “But I wouldn’t swap our horse for any other. We respect the competition, but we believe in Charyn’s chances.”
As the race day draws nearer, the excitement builds for Charyn’s attempt to double his Group One tally and further establish himself as one of Europe’s top milers. With Roger Varian’s meticulous preparation and Charyn’s impressive form, the Prix Jacques le Marois promises to be a thrilling contest.