Juddmonte are yet to commit to supplementing Bluestocking for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, with a decision to be made on their star filly's participation following a key weekend workout and consideration of the forecast.
The Ralph Beckett-trained four-year-old continued her terrific season with a second Group 1 triumph in the Prix Vermeille over the Arc's course and distance at Longchamp this month. She is a general 10-1 for Europe's Flat showpiece, which takes place a week on Sunday, behind 4-1 favourite Sosie.
However, her connections would have to stump up €120,000 on October 2 to add her to the Arc field. While the powerful operation are eager for her to have a go, they are also waiting to see if there will be sufficient ease in the surface at Longchamp.
Juddmonte's racing manager Barry Mahon said: "She'll do a bit of work on Saturday and then if Ralph is happy with her wellbeing and the ground looks like it's coming up soft then there's every possibility she'll be supplemented.
"The owners are keen to give it a go, but we'll get Saturday out of the way first and then study the forecast on the Sunday and make our decision on Sunday or Monday."
Juddmonte won the Arc six times before the death of founder Khalid Abdullah in 2021, including with two-time heroine Enable in 2017 and 2018. Workforce, Rail Link, Dancing Brave and Rainbow Quest are their other winners, while the Beckett-trained Westover finished second for the operation last year.
Should Bluestocking miss the Arc, she is entered in the Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes, which she finished runner-up in last year, and the Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot on October 19.
Arc De Triomphe Odds
The current odds for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe are as follows:
- Sosie: 4-1
- Shin Emperor: 6-1
- Look De Vega: 13-2
- Los Angeles: 8-1
- Al Riffa, Bluestocking, Delius: 10-1
- Aventure: 16-1
- Msqe De Sevigne: 20-1
- 25 bar: 25-1
Bluestocking's Arc Fate Hinges on Weekend Workout and Weather
The decision on whether Bluestocking will compete in the Arc de Triomphe rests heavily on the results of her weekend workout and the prevailing weather conditions. While her owners are keen to see her take on the prestigious race, the hefty supplement fee and the potential for an easier target at Ascot in two weeks add to the complexity of the decision.
Ralph Beckett, Bluestocking's trainer, will make a final call on Wednesday morning after assessing her wellbeing. He has emphasized the importance of her recent Group 1 victory and the need to monitor her condition closely. He will need to balance her recent performance with the demands of the Arc and the uncertainties of the weather forecast.
Juddmonte's Legacy in the Arc de Triomphe
Juddmonte's decision on Bluestocking's participation carries historical significance. The operation has a rich history in the Arc de Triomphe, having won the prestigious race six times, including two victories with the legendary Enable. Their recent successes, coupled with Bluestocking's impressive form, have fueled anticipation for her potential Arc run. The decision, therefore, carries weight beyond the immediate race, reflecting the legacy of the Juddmonte operation in European racing.
The Future for Bluestocking
The final decision on Bluestocking's participation in the Arc de Triomphe is anticipated to be made within the next few days. The outcome will have significant implications for her racing future, shaping her path towards potential success in the Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes or the Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot. Regardless of her immediate fate, Bluestocking has cemented her position as a top contender in the European racing scene, leaving fans and racing enthusiasts eagerly awaiting her next challenge.
