Arc De Triomphe Runners

The main contenders for the 2008 Arc De Triomphe include two of Aiden O'Briens 'big guns', Soldier of Fortune and Duke of Marmalade. But neither is the talking horse of the race; as that belongs to the very impressive French filly Zarkava.

Up to £100 in free bets on the Arc De Triomphe with online bookmakers

Others who are worthy of note is the unbeaten French Derby winner, Vision D'Etat, who looked in good form when winning the recent Group 2 Prix Niel. Youmzain, who was runner up last year to Dylan Thomas will take his chance, but there has been a jockey change on him; Richard Hughes loses the ride in favour of Richard Hills. Getaway who was fourth last year is believed to be back on song after a series of disappointing performances. Other horses still likely to run are Papal Bull, Meishu Samson, Tartan Bearer and Hala Bek.

Those at the head of the Arc De Triomphe betting wil be the focus of our attention when looking at the leading fancies for the 2008 Arc as it really does look lieka  three horse race, with Vision D'Etat the best of the rest.

Zarkava  - 2/1 with all major bookmakers

Zarkava stormed home from the back of the field when winning the Prix Vermeille in September. Her win had the French media claiming that she is the best filly ever seen and as a result her odds shortened for the race considerably. The big question is whether or not she can get the better of the colts.

Duke of Marmalade - 5/1 Ladbrokes

Duke of Marmalde continued his outstanding season with victory in the Group One Juddmonte International Stakes over ten furlongs at Newmarket. It was his fifth Group One win in his unbeaten four-year-old season and was described by jockey, Johnny Murtagh as the best horse he has ridden. His form and proven ability in 2008 and holds a big chance.

Soldier Of Fortune  - 9/2 with Ladbrokes.com

Soldier Of Fortune was this years winner of the Juddmonte Coronation Cup at the Epsom Derby meeting. He had not been out since finishing a place behind Getaway in the Arc, he got a bit warm and was sweating between his legs in the preliminaries, but it did not impair his performance and he was the best horse on the day. He looks set for further success at this level, and while O'Brien was not revealing a firm plan, he said the winner would be campaigned in the top races at either 1m2f or 1mf.