Ryan Moore guides The Great Gatsby to victory in the French Derby

Colt’s win represents a first major European Classic success for trainer Kevin Ryan

Ryan Moore riding The Grey Gatsby (L) win The Prix Du Jockey Club at Chantilly racecourse in Chantilly, France. Photo:  Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images
Ryan Moore riding The Grey Gatsby (L) win The Prix Du Jockey Club at Chantilly racecourse in Chantilly, France. Photo: Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images

Yet another wonderful ride from Ryan Moore aboard The Grey Gatsby was enough to secure a first British-trained winner of the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly since 2005.

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 10 furlongs when Shamardal struck for Godolphin nine years ago.

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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.

Prince Gibraltar 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.