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The fillies are the focus in the Prix de l’Opera run at Longchamp on Sunday.
Tarnawa turned into a high class stayer. Can we see another like her in the 2021 Prix de l'Opera (2000m) at Longchamp on Sunday?
2021 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.
Tarnawa would go on to win the Breeders' Cup Turf after her Vermeille and L'Opera victories.
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 Tarnawa in 2020 for Dermot Weld.
The Prix de l'Opera was worth €500,000 in 2021.
Notable winners of the Prix de l'Opera include Tarnawa (2020),Wild Illusion (2018), 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 2020 Prix de l'Opera was won by Tarnawa from Alpine Star and Audarya.
