It was an emotional success for trainer Jean-Claude Rouget as Leffard defied Trinity College in the Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp on Sunday.
Leffard was one of the outsiders of the six-strong field, aiming to get back on track after a disappointing defeat in the Prix du Jockey Club, where he finished seventeenth. The son of Le Havre had proved to be effective at two, winning twice and his breeding – the dam being a half-sister to High Chaparral – suggested that the step up to 1m4f would be ideal.
Ridden by Cristian Demuro for the first time, Leffard was keen in the early stages, positioned on the inner rail and kept prominent three back the inside in the small field of six. He was asked to chase favourite Trinity College and Frankly Good Cen, with Trinity College having taken the front during the early part of the race, however Frankly Good Cen assumed that role from the 1600m. With two furlongs to go and Frankly Good Cen beginning to drop away, the race changed with Trinity College going to the lead. Leffard responded late, pegging back Trinity College to claim victory right on the line with a short head success. New Ground, despite pulling noticeably throughout the race, stayed on for third.
Rouget has struggled with health issues over the last couple of years and Demuro was quick to praise the trainer, saying: "It's incredible for Jean-Claude Rouget. He made the trip here and I'm so happy for him.
"It's amazing that he's back and winning a Group race. He's a father figure to me. Leffard is a superb horse, and I had a great trip – he's really top class."
In an interview with Sky Sports Racing, Rouget said: "It was fantastic when I saw the horse coming. I was very confident there was not a big difference between the two (Leffard and Trinity College).
"I knew he was very good, but I had to find a new confidence in him (after the Prix du Jockey-Club). He was so well this week, and the field was not tremendous I decided to supplement him. When I saw six runners, it was possible to be third and we did better.
"I think yes (he is an Arc horse), because when I bought him, I was sure I bought a good horse.
"It's a big fairytale, life continues, and we do other things.
"This is a great moment for my team in Pau. It's hard to sum it all up in a few words. Their support is what kept me going. Without them, I would have quit.
"My assistant, Jean-Rene Dubosc, did a remarkable job. He took two weeks off and will be returning from vacation a happy man!"
Leffard could return to Longchamp for the course and distance Group 2 Prix Niel, ahead of a Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe bid.
