Makahiki banishes the doubts and leaves Lemaire purring

Christophe Lemaire was left brimming with confidence yesterday after his big-race mount Makahiki put in a polished performance in his final serious work ahead of Sunday's Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

Makahiki remains a best-priced 5-1 to end Japan's Arc heartache, and his supporters will draw nothing but comfort from the words of the Kyoto-based, French-born Lemaire.

"His skin is gleaming and he is beautifully muscled up, which wasn't necessarily the case before the Niel," said Lemaire. "He's definitely come on since his trial and I think he is in top form. I was delighted to find him in full possession of his powers this morning."