BIG ROCK started out in handicaps this campaign but ended a winning run with Group 3 victories here and at Chantilly. He's subsequently twice finished second at the highest level and can get back to winning ways. He holds Erevann on their run in the Jacques le Marois and the latter had Facteur Cheval behind in last year's Prix Daniel Wildenstein though the latter has made great strides this season and looks a major threat on his second to Paddington in the Sussex Stakes. Fast Raaj has returned from a spell in Dubai in top form though needs to step-up a gear from beating three rivals in a Chantilly Group 3.
Erevann (FR) 9-1 (9-5) 6th of 11, 6 3/4l behind Inspiral (9-2) at Deauville 1m Grp 1 gs in Aug.
Fast Raaj (FR) 10-3 (9-3) won at Chantilly 1m Grp 3 stks in Jul beating Topgear (9-3) by 1 1/4l, 4 ran.
Topgear (FR) 1-2fav (9-3) 2nd of 4, 1 1/4l behind Fast Raaj (9-3) at Chantilly 1m Grp 3 stks in Jul.
Facteur Cheval (IRE) 11-1 (9-10) Close up in rear, went 4th over 3f out, ridden to chase winner approaching final furlong, stayed on, 2nd of 5, 1 1/2l behind Paddington (9-3) at Goodwood 1m Grp 1 stks (1) sft in Aug.
Belbek (FR) 22-1 (9-2) 6th of 12, 7 1/4l behind Good Guess (9-2) at Deauville 7f Grp 1 sft in Jul.
Big Rock (FR) 9-4fav (8-12) 2nd of 11, 1 1/4l behind Inspiral (9-2) at Deauville 1m Grp 1 gs in Aug.
Sauterne (FR) 9-2 (8-10) 3rd of 9, 1/2l behind Mqse De Sevigne (9-4) at Deauville 1m Grp 1 stks sft in Jul.
Kelina (IRE) 7-2 (8-10) 8th of 9, 14 1/4l behind Mqse De Sevigne (9-4) at Deauville 1m Grp 1 stks sft in Jul.