Rayif storms to victory in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville
Francis-Henri Graffard’s colt Rayif captured the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville, edging out Zeus Olympios and Precise.
Rayif, the Poule d'Essai des Poulains victor trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, returned to top form to win the Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville. After a minor setback that derailed a planned Royal Ascot run and a fifth-place finish in the Prix Jean Prat, the colt produced a powerful finish under Mickael Barzalona, beating Zeus Olympios, who led in the final furlong, and Precise, the hot favourite. Graffard highlighted Rayif’s adaptability, citing his previous soft-ground success and the flawless trip he received.
He outlined possible autumn targets, including the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot, the Prix du Moulin, or a shorter sprint in the Prix de la Forêt. Trainer Karl Burke expressed optimism about his runner-up Zeus Olympios, suggesting a future campaign at Ascot or Longchamp. The victory adds a second Group 1 trophy to Graffard’s résumé and enhances Rayif’s breeding prospects.
Why it matters
The win boosts Rayif’s reputation and value as a future sire while shaping his upcoming race schedule.
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