Ace Italian saddle artist Frankie Dettori came up with yet another brilliant performance while steering John Gosden-trained Star Of Seville to a famous victory in the Prix de Diane Longines at Chantilly racecourse in France yesterday.
It was a tremendous training performance by Gosden to have the Lady Bamford-owned filly in fine condition, just nine days after she was well beaten in the Investec Oaks at Epsom.
Epsom Derby hero Dettori always had Star Of Seville close to the lead set by Clarmina, a pacemaker for the favourite Queen’s Jewel. While the field compacted turning in, Dettori was able to get first run on the Musidora winner as he took her to the front.
Star Of Seville maintained her foray in the front as she held off Physiocrate to second place, while Little Nightingale finished third. Favourite Queen’s Jewel failed to pose a threat.
The other British raider, Mick Channon’s Malabar, briefly looked as though she may get involved but was unable to get close at the business end.
Eight days ago Dettori, won the 236th running of the Derby on Golden Horn. Like Golden Horn, Star Of Seville is owned by Lady Bamford.
Dettori who had been without a Classic win since 2011 prior to these victories, was elated with the win of Star Seville. “It’s just like 2007, when I won the Derby and then the Prix de Diane. To do it twice is unbelievable.”
“She is such a strong filly and she loves this ground and this trip. She won well and I’m delighted. John should get all the credit, to back up a horse to win the Prix de Diane after running in the Oaks. A few of my friends were raising their eyebrows but he has done it.”
