Royer-Dupre hails Zarkava
by Michelle Fortune, 13 October 2008
Alain de Royer-Dupre has paid tribute to his wonder filly Zarkava following her retirement to stud.
The Chantilly handler has cared for the daughter of Zamindar throughout her career and hailed her as one of the best he had ever trained following her win in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
"As a trainer, it is normal to feel some disappointment at her retirement," he explained.
"But I understand that it is important for the valuable continuation of the Aga Khan's breeding operation. She is going to be a wonderful prospect at stud."
A winner on each of her seven starts, Zarkava confirmed her superstar status with a stunning victory at Longchamp last weekend, a race that Royer-Dupre believes epitomised her natural talent.
"That was the best race for her because when she crossed the finishing line, she had won so easily. That was unbelievable - especially as she hit traffic jams during the race," he continued.
"I always said her greatest quality was her acceleration. The ability to make up so much space in such a short space of time - like she showed in the Vermeille [when left in the stalls] - was incredible.
"It is not very often a horse like this comes along - I have been very lucky. She is possibly the best I have trained, but Dalakhani [his previous Arc winner] was also a great horse to have.
"Zarkava has been a beautiful story."