Derby Winner Dardanos a Favorite in Grand Prix of Berlin
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The 136th Grand Prix of Berlin horse race will feature Derby winner Dardanos competing for the first time since his victory.
- The race, with a prize of 155,000 euros, includes four strong contenders from England.
- Almeric is the favorite, with trainer Andrew Balding optimistic about its potential.
The German horse racing season culminates this Sunday with the 136th Grand Prix of Berlin, a prestigious Group I race for three-year-old and older horses. The event, held at Hoppegarten and offering a total prize of 155,000 euros over 2,400 meters, will see Derby winner Dardanos make his first appearance since his surprise victory in Hamburg a month prior.
Eddie Pedroza will ride Dardanos in the race, where he will compete against a strong field that includes four formidable challengers from England. Racecourse owner Gerhard Schรถningh expressed excitement about the event, noting a potential record field of ten starters and particularly highlighting Dardanos' participation. He also mentioned the presence of last year's Derby winner, Hochkรถnig, ridden by Jack Mitchell.
We can present a record field of ten starters this time. And we are especially pleased that the newly crowned Derby winner Dardanos is running with us.
The four-year-old stallion Almeric, with jockey Jason Watson, is considered the favorite. His English trainer, Andrew Balding, is optimistic, stating, "Our horse has raced little and should have potential for improvement." The day's racing program also includes three other breeding races, each with a prize of 35,000 euros.
The Grand Prix of Berlin is a significant event on the German racing calendar, attracting top talent and offering substantial prize money. The competition promises an exciting display of equestrian sport, with Dardanos looking to continue his winning streak against international competition.
Our horse has raced little and should have potential for improvement.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.