The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in France, held at Longchamp on the first Sunday in October, is the richest Thoroughbred race in all of Europe.

Here’s a glimpse at the race that was in 2019…

Gilded Longchamp was designed to represent a galloping horse.

©Richard R. Gross

Though given a two-year, multi-million dollar renovation, Longchamp retains a quiet 19th Century elegance.

©Richard R. Gross

You don’t have to be a horse to get a gate at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

©Richard R. Gross

It’s France, but as at American sporting events, it’s a good place to have a ‘Dog’…

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…and a beer.

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Eclectic fashion is a thing at Longchamp.

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A tradition followed at home, fans of the three Japanese runners post good luck wishes to their favorites.

©Richard R. Gross

The French crowd is pulling for British-bred Enable.

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The Arc Post Parade.

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The Arc Post Parade is preceded by the Arc Trophy.

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Enable with a serious Frankie Dettori aboard is ready for her Arc run.

©Richard R. Gross

Anxious fans hope to witness racing history.

©Richard R. Gross

But Waldgeist spoils their hopes,

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…and fan disappointment shows.

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French jockey Pierre-Charles Boudot captures his first Arc victory.

©Richard R. Gross

The exaltation of winning the world’s premier race.

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But Boudot knows the real winner.

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Presenters prepare to award the winners and their connections the Arc trophies.

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Three of the winning connections.

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Part-owner Dietrich Von Boetticher with his winner and jockey.

©Richard R. Gross

Entering the Longchamp Winners Circle.

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In the Longchamp Winners Circle.

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Winning connections are led to the Presentation Stand on traditional horse-drawn carriages.

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A troop of French National Guard participate in the presentation with the playing of The Marseilles.

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The Trophy Presentation Ceremony closes the Arc 2019.

©Richard R. Gross