Moonlight Cloud has created history at Deauville with a mesmerising performance in the Prix Jacques le Marois.
Freddie Head’s brilliant mare became the first horse to win the Normandy track’s twin Group One highlights in the same year – just seven days after her record-breaking third triumph in the Prix Maurice de Gheest.
Moonlight Cloud’s three-length advantage was eroded nearing the line by Olympic Glory, but in a desperate finish she held Frankie Dettori’s mount by a short head.
The favourite Intello proved no match for the principals and under Olivier Peslier finished a length and three quarters back in third.
Head is now plotting a campaign of between one and three more races for his George Strawbridge-owned champion who came closer than any other horse to beating Black Caviar in last year’s Diamond Jubilee Stakes.
“We’ll see how she is. The plan has always been to bypass the Moulin and to run in the Foret on Arc day. After that it will be up to George Strawbridge,” Head said.
“If we carry on Hong Kong could be in line, but although I love the Breeders’ Cup the problem is that she ran very badly at Santa Anita last year and the meeting is at the same course.
“On the other hand if Mr Strawbridge wants to retire her on a high note that could happen after the Foret.”
