Apart from the fact that 14 July is what non-French know as Bastille Day, the national holiday, this date is one not to miss, as ParisLongchamp stages the Garden Party. The event successfully blends a high-standard of racing and…..electro music. After the nine races and DJ sets begin, the public can cool off on the Longchamp turf.

The name of the evening meeting’s second race is famously etched in stone, the Gr.1 Grand Prix de Paris, for 3 year-olds over 2400m, and an event that not-infrequently leads to the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. 

While it is still too early to speculate with any degree of confidence, the Prix du Lys, last official prep for the Grand Prix de Paris, might give us an indicator. Winner, Rubis Vendôme, was sensational that day and trainer Mario Baratti, celebrating his first group success, was confident his colt still had more progress in him.

Feed The Flame also has the profile for Saturday’s highlight. Six months ago, Pascal Bary was not convinced his colt was that talented. Now, his focus is the Arc, and the Grand Prix de Paris would be the precise stepping stone. Regular rider, Christophe Soumillon is unavailable due to suspension and may well be replaced by Cristian Demuro.

The doors open at 15,00, with the first race setting off at 16,35. The Dj’s get to work proper from 19,45 to 01,00, with famous French DJ and musician, Martin Solveig hosting the evening. While the Garden party is a huge hit with the public, racing takes centre-stage, with a pair of Gr.2s, Prix de Malleret and Prix Maurice due Nieuil supporting the main race.