Calandagan clashes with Economics in the Champion Stakes

Francis-Henri Graffard has reported that Calandagan is in “top form” as he gears up for an exciting showdown with Economics in the Champion Stakes at Ascot next month.

Calandagan, a son of Gleneagles, delivered a stunning performance when he won the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot by six lengths. Most recently, he finished a strong second behind City Of Troy in the Juddmonte International.

As a gelding, Calandagan is unable to compete in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, making Qipco British Champions Day on October 19 the clear next target.

Graffard stated, “Calandagan is in top form and is training for Ascot.”

The three-year-old is currently the 2-1 second-favourite for the Champion Stakes with Paddy Power, who have the William Haggas-trained Economics as the 6-4 favourite.

Another of Graffard's promising contenders is the regally-bred Zarigana, who remains unbeaten after a dominant win in the Group Three Prix d’Aumale. A granddaughter of the undefeated Arc heroine Zarkava, the Siyouni filly is being prepared for a return to ParisLongchamp during Arc weekend.

“Zarigana is a lovely filly; she won well and will be aimed at the Prix Marcel Boussac,” Graffard added.