The 2yo colt Topgear (Wootton Bassett), unbeaten in his career two starts, stretched his record to three when taking the coveted Prix Éclipse (Gr3) at Chantilly over 1,200m. The juvenile colt, who is owned by Hisaaki Saito, proved courageous to come and pocket a first Black Type victory.

 

Taking advantage of his number 2 in the starting stalls, TOPGEAR travelled up the stands-side rail under jockey Stephane Pasquier. A quick pace was set by the British raiders in the early stages, but after 700 meters they had already conceded the race. The lead was picked by the German filly Best Flying (Pedro the Great) in front of the stands, with TOPGEAR quickly on her heels. The two juveniles quickly pulled clear of the rest of the field, and battled through the final 300 meters together, with TOPGEAR gaining the advantage in the closing stages to win by a short neck, with the third-placed horse 4½ lengths further back. This exciting colt has not disappointed from his promising debuts in Deauville, running strongly through the line to win his first Group race. 

 

TOPGEAR was purchased at the Arqana August Yearling Sale by Sébastien Desmontils' Chauvigny Global Equine on behalf of owner Hisaaki Saito. He is by Coolmore's Wootton Bassett and is the sire’s 14th Group winner. He is out of the winning mare Miss Lech (Giant's Causeway).