Racing: Chantilly glory for Grey Gatsby

A delighted Ryan Moore enjoys the winning feeling after his terrific Prix du Jockey Club triumph. Picture: Getty

The French Derby has tended to be dominated by the home contingent, but Kevin Ryan’s colt proved his success in the Dante at York was not a one-off as he quickened three lengths clear of Shamkiyr and the luckless favourite Prince Gibraltar.

The Grey Gatsby, who was sent off at nearly 20-1, appeared to get warm before the start and was not immediately in position but took up residence in the middle of the field as Prestige Vendome and Mr Pommeroy set the pace.

Moore moved towards the rail, finding a perfect opening approaching the final furlong, and The Grey Gatsby picked up well in what was the quickest ever time for a race which was moved back to an extended ten furlongs when Shamardal struck for Godolphin nine years ago.

It was a first victory in the event for Moore, and a first major European Classic for North Yorkshire-based Ryan, whose biggest prizes to date have largely come with two-year-olds. As is often the case, it was a rough and tactical affair and the most obvious hard luck story came with the highly-rated Prince Gibraltar, who was stuck at the back of the field before making late ground under Gerald Mosse.

Shamkiyr took second place for the Aga Khan, while the other British raider Ayrad was only 11th. The French Guineas winner Karakontie appeared not to stay and finished eighth.

Ryan said: “We always thought he was a good horse and after the Dante Ryan thought that the French Derby would be the right race for him.

“I don’t think he got the credit he deserved after the Dante Stakes. Obviously it’s great to win a French Classic.

“He will have a break now for a couple of weeks and then there would be the Juddmonte International to consider.” Asked if he thought he would stay further, Ryan said: “I don’t see any reason why he wouldn’t stay. He doesn’t have an entry in the Arc, but yes, we would consider supplementing him.”

Owner Frank Gillespie said: “This means a lot to us. I have about six horses in training with Kevin and I would like to thank Ryan who rode him so well today. I think I would like to go to York with him next.” Moore explained his strategy when he said: “This is the second time that he has run over this trip and he won really well.

“He broke well and as usual it was a bit messy early on with everyone trying to get off the rail and I actually went back to the rail.

“Once he got his position he found his rhythm and when we got into the straight I thought he would win. He showed a good turn of foot.”