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Some good ladies form the Race History of the 2018 Prix de l’Opera at ParisLongchamp on Sunday.
Rhododendron won as a filly then graduated to open class a year later. Could the 2018 Prix de l’Opera (2000m) at ParisLongchamp on Sunday provide an elite girl?
2018 PRIX DE L’OPERA - RACE HISTORY AND BACKGROUND
The Prix de l’Opera is a Group 1 race run under Weight For Age conditions for fillies and mares at Longchamp conducted by France Galop.
The Prix de l’Opera is run over 2000m. It was first run in 1974 and was won by Cheryl.
When originated it was a Group 2 race and only for 3/4yos. Older mares were allowed in 1990 and it went to 2000m with Group 1 added in 2000.
The Prix de l’Opera is run on Prix de l‘Arc de Triomphe day.
The 2016 and 2017 editions were run at Chantilly as Longchamp was under its long term redevelopment.
Athyka is the only multiple winner with two in 1988 and 1989.
There are four jockeys with three wins each – Yves Saint-Martin, Walter Swinburn, Cash Asmussen and Christophe Soumillon.
Criquette Head-Maarek has most victories as trainer with five.
The last non-French winner was Rhododendron in 2017 for Aidan O’Brien.
The Prix de l’Opera is worth €500,000 in 2018.
Notable winners of the Prix de l’Opera include Rhododendron (2017), Covert Love (2015), Lily Of The Valley (2010), Satwa Queen (2007), Alexander Goldrun (2004), Petrushka (2000), Timarida (1995), Hatoof (1992), Athyka (1988/1989), Royal Heroine (1983) and Waya (1977).
The 2017 Prix de l’Opera was won by Rhododendron from Hydrangea and Lady Frankel.
