PartialLogo
Grand National festival
premium

'To be able to ride Zarkava's son in the Arc is magical'

Scott Burton talks to the jockey going for a third win with Zarak

Christophe Soumillon throws his helmet to the crowd after Zarkava's 2008 Arc triumph
Christophe Soumillon throws his helmet to the crowd after Zarkava's 2008 Arc triumphCredit: Edward Whitaker

In the image bank of Christophe Soumillon's career, there are innumerable highlights: think two sumptuous victories in the Arc, or Almanzor's majestic sweep down the Leopardstown straight, or Mandali's solo in the French Champion Hurdle.

A rider blessed with strength, tactical awareness and on occasion sheer artistry, Soumillon has produced some final flourishes worthy of his countrymen Bruegel and Van Eyck.

On Sunday he will attempt to create a significant piece of Arc history aboard Zarak, cause enough for the mind to be flooded with memories of the colt's mother, the ethereally talented Zarkava.

Read the full story

Read award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing, with exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours and subscriber-only emails.

Subscribe to unlock
  • Racing Post digital newspaper (worth over £100 per month)
  • Award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing
  • Expert tips from the likes of Tom Segal and Paul Kealy
  • Replays and results analysis from all UK and Irish racecourses
  • Form study tools including the Pro Card and Horse Tracker
  • Extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree and sales data
Subscribe

Already a subscriber?Log in

inGrand National festival

iconCopy