Eight races in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, February 9: A balanced `Course Europeenne` (Prix de l`Ille-et-Vilaine/13.55/57,000 euros/2100m) for older horses that have not won 200,000 euros kicks off today`s eight-race event at Paris-Vincennes.

Fiesta du Belver (Benjamin Rochard) surpassed expectations here in fourth place just a fortnight ago and thanks to a favourable starting position, she is registering her first chances. Excel d`Amour (Hugues Monthule) is the only competitor with a fresh winning form. In Ponchateau, the eight-year-old won safely despite an allowance. Vicki Laksmy (Franck Nivard) ran a disappointing meeting so far, but with a bit of racing luck he could end up on a podium. Eva de Gueriniere (Matthieu Abrivard) and Evita Madrik (Franck Ouvrie) fought to the line for the win in the Prix d`Espalion (Course D). After a photo finish, the two mares had to settle for the places. Europa de Chenu (Louis Baudron) runs alternately under saddle and in front of the sulky. Apparently, the Baudron protégé has specialised in third places. Foxtrot Nobless (Enzo Lelievre) had everything against him lately, with the performance of 25 November as fifth in front of Fiesta du Belver he should play a supporting role.