Prix de la Foret – Tip – 5.00pm ParisLongchamp

The Prix de la Foret is the final Group 1 on a stellar weekend of racing at ParisLongchamp for the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe meeting. The rain since late on Saturday evening has been relentlessly and somewhat biblical at times and it will undoubtedly be extremely testing.

Njord has been steadily progressive since joining Jessica Harrington in late 2019. On his first run for Harrington he bolted up off a mark of 82 and carried on improving throughout 2020. His 2020 campaign culminated in a resounding victory off 102 in the Balmoral Handicap at the Champions Day meeting.

He’s continued that progression again this year finishing just over a length behind Kinross at Haydock Park in May. His most two recents runs have come in Group 2s at Newbury and Leopardstown where he’s finished a creditable third and fourth, beaten two lengths and a length respectively.

Njord has to improve significantly on that form in his first attempt in Group 1 company. However, this isn’t the strongest Group 1 ever and chances can be given a large number of these.

There has to be major doubts about some of the principles on likely heavy ground but Njord will devour it. Njord seems to come in to his own at this time of year and has produced his best form in October in the last two seasons. It is therefore encouraging he’s run to such a high level again throughout the summer.

He also has a nice draw in 6 which bodes well for his chances, whereas some of the market leaders are drawn out much wider. With the generous four place concession, he looks a nice bet to finish in the frame at the very least until optimum conditions.

5.00pm ParisLongchamp – 2pt each way Njord 12/1 general (4 places)