The Prix De L’Arc de Triomphe: A race that has consistently exceeded the ambitions of its creators

The race originated from the rubble of World War One when the French Turf Club (Société d’Encouragement) wanted to revitalise their ravaged thoroughbred industry

ParisLongchamp — the home of the Prix De L’Arc de Triomphe for all of its 100 year history. The original vision for the race was a level weights, lucrative middle-distance end of season championship that would attract the best horses from every major racing nation. Picture: Healy Racing

It’s another notable week in this decade of historical centenaries. One hundred years ago Michael Collins was on his way to London for the start of negotiations on what would become the Anglo-Irish Treaty and, after some initial unpleasantness, the foundation of a new Free State.

In Paris at about the same time the second running of Europe’s greatest flat race, the Prix De L’Arc de Triomphe took place at Longchamp. Due to the outbreak of another war, the 1939-40 editions were skipped, so tomorrow is the belated 100th running of the race.