Tickets still available but you can see it all on the telly

The track

Most French racing professionals consider Chantilly to present a stiffer test of stamina than Longchamp, although that, to an extent, is a matter of opinion.

The Arc's substitute venue undoubtedly has a longer home straight and one that climbs in the first of its three furlongs, which explains why local jockeys invariably wait before asking for an effort.

The draw

A study of past results suggests in fields as large as this year's Arc a low draw can be beneficial. However, many believe over the big-race trip at Chantilly the draw is of minimal importance.

Racegoers soak up the sunshine at Chantilly on SaturdayCredit: Edward Whitaker

That is partly because Chantilly's 1m4f track is much like Epsom's in reverse, in that the field initially takes a left-handed bend before embarking on the much longer right-handed journey towards home.

Indeed, to highlight that a wide draw need be no barrier, last year's Arc one-two-three began from stalls 12, 11 and 16.

The punting

As usual, those who do not take a price with bookmakers will have bets settled at the industry SP, produced after all firms collate their information. The alternative option is to select the pari-mutuel return. For winning punters this can either deliver a very pleasant surprise or an unwelcome shock.

The admission

If you haven't already purchased your entrance ticket, fret not.

For €30 you can still get into the main enclosure, which gives you access to the main grandstand, viewing spots around the paddock and winner's enclosure and perhaps the finest ice cream stall on any European racecourse. (Maison Trueba, €2.80 for a single scoop, worth every cent).

For those wanting to see the sport from a different angle, and at a slightly reduced cost, €12 is the price of entry to the infield village enclosure, practically in touching distance of Chantilly's all-weather circuit. There is, however, no Arc day action on the sand.

The public transport

Trains from Gare du Nord in Paris to Chantilly-Gouvieux on Arc morning take between 19 and 32 minutes, leaving at 9.07am, 9.41am, 10.33am, 11.01am, 11.22am, 12.04pm and 12.34pm, 1.07pm and 1.37pm. You can get later trains but you'll miss the Marcel Boussac, which would be a shame.

Rattlers returning to the French capital were surprisingly not busy last year, with refreshed racegoers creating a noticeably lively atmosphere. This year the trains are due to depart at 5.29pm, 5.58pm, 6.02pm, 6.40pm, 6.58pm, 7.16pm, 7.28pm and 7.48pm.

If you get lost in the forest trying to find the station (you shouldn't as from one to the other is a well signposted walk) there are later trains.

Be warned that if you wish to drive to Chantilly there are restrictions on cars every first Sunday of the month. This is one of those Sundays.

The telly

If you are staying at home, the good news is the Arc is this year returned to mainstream television with ITV's main channel on air for two and a half hours from 1pm.

Coverage of the first four races (one of which is the Arabian World Cup) is anchored in London by Ed Chamberlin and Francesca Cumani, with Richard Hoiles and Oli Bell on duty at the track.

Also in action at Chantilly is Matt Chapman, who will be interviewing for At The Races, which, like Racing UK, is televising every Group 1 live.

Chantilly card