Kalpana team closing in on Arc route decision

The next destination for Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe favourite Kalpana is expected to be decided by the end of this week.

Connections are weighing up whether to go down the ‘Enable route’ and head to Kempton for the September Stakes or the more traditional path to the Arc by running a top-class filly in the Prix Vermeille.

Andrew Balding’s four-year-old is without a win in three races this season but has performed with credit in the Tattersalls Gold Cup, the Pretty Polly and the King George at Ascot leading to her heading the lists for the ParisLongchamp showpiece.

Owners Juddmonte won the Arc last year with Bluestocking who, like Kalpana, finished second in the King George and also ran in the Juddmonte International before winning the Prix Vermeille.

“Kalpana remains in good form,” said Barry Mahon, Juddmonte’s racing manager.

“She’s had a little freshen up but we’ve yet to fully commit to where she’s going to go next.

“The options are the September Stakes on the all-weather at Kempton or the Prix Vermeille.

“Hopefully we’ll have a decision by the end of this week.”