'We're keen to have a crack' - Alenquer set to take his chance in the Arc

The classy Alenquer is on course for a possible Longchamp rematch with last weekend's St Leger hero Hurricane Lane in the Group 1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on October 3, connections have confirmed.

A general 25-1 chance to register his first win at the highest level, Alenquer was given plenty to do when finishing just over seven lengths adrift of the Godolphin colt in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris in July.

Third on that occasion, he was again doing all his best work at the finish when filling second spot behind Mishriff when last seen in the Group 1 Juddmonte International at York last month.

Our experts highlight 25-1 and 14-1 outsiders for the Arc after eventful weekend

Trained by William Haggas for Kuwaiti owners MM Stables, Alenquer is on target to run in Paris, and connections already have big plans to keep him in training at four.

Armando Duarte, racing manager to the owners said: "The owners Mubarak Alarou and Mussad Almutari are keen to have a crack at the Arc as Alenquer is a mile-and-a-half horse and will handle any cut in the ground. Obviously it's a tough race but he's been in good shape since York and we are hopeful he'll run a nice race."

As to targets, Duarte said: "Ideally, the plan next year would be to have a look at the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic as the owners are from Kuwait, which is right next door. Alenquer would be suited by a mile and a half around the sweeping turns at Meydan on the turf and then we'd give him a break before campaigning him here again next summer."

Alenquer beats Derby and King George hero Adayar (right) and Great Voltigeur winner Yibir in the Sandown Classic Trial in AprilCredit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

Alenquer's most eyecatching formline is his defeat of Derby winner Adayar in the Classic Trial at Sandown in April, but he was forced to miss a rematch at Epsom after a setback. The son of Adlerflug then went on to land the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Duarte added: "The form with Adayar was no fluke and he's shown what he can do after that as well. Hopefully he can run a nice race in the Arc and is a nice horse going forward."

Arc card and betting

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