Zarkava dazzles

Zarkava, hailed by many as racing’s next superstar, further enhanced her reputation with a scintillating return to action at Longchamp.

The unbeaten Alain de Royer-Dupre-trained filly was settled towards the rear of the runners in the Prix de la Grotte in the early stages, but took closer order with two and a half furlongs of the mile contest left to run.

Christophe Soumillon pressed the button a furlong out and the response was electric as she shot clear of Conference Call and Lessing.

VC Bet reacted by making her clear 9-2 favourite (from 8s) for the Juddmonte Oaks at Epsom on June 6.