The Listed Prix de Suresnes at Chantilly features an unbeaten dual winner for Jean-Claude Rouget, as well as a trio that are dropping back in grade from the Classic trials, with Gargarin’s Moon the pick of those, having had a troubled run in the Prix La Force.
He was my original pick in the race, but the price is now short enough (under 2-1 at time of writing) and at much bigger odds, I am siding with Absurde.
The son of Fastnet Rock is from a family that improves with time, but there was plenty to like about his runs in maidens, not least the second to Pimento at Chantilly last November, when making a significant mid-race move under his apprentice rider.
Placed in two starts here in February/March when the yard was very quiet, he showed what he is capable of when absolutely running away with a Saint-Cloud handicap over this trip last time. That came off a mark of just 36 (79UK), but the manner in which he went through the contest suggested he would be more than able to hold his own at a higher level and it is very interesting to see his astute trainer has supplemented him for this Listed engagement, rather than take up any of the four options he was already entered in this week.
His handicap experience should stand him in good stead, he has a good cruising speed and the ground will suit, so he looks a good each-way bet.
3.20pm Chantilly – 1pt each-way Absurde @ 9-1 (all firms)
