Two 90,000s at the end of the year

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 31 December: The racing year ends today in Vincennes with a ten-race programme. Two times 90,000 euros will be paid out to the older age groups in the two highlight.

In the Prix Yvonnick Bodin (7th race/15.50 h/2700 m) the young riders are in demand. After the winning performance of Dimo d`Occagnes (Mathilde Colas) in the Prix August Francois (Group 3), the way to success leads through the nine-year-old, whereby the surprisingly pale Florida Sport (Loanne Fauchon) as well as Digne et Droit (Marie Darbord) and Carioca de Lou (Thomas Roullier) also have their chances. Not to be underestimated is El Capitano (Kwincy Petitjean), who is currently showing well in two Montés. Also Fiaschetto (Esteban de Jesus), who came second in the Prix de l`Ile d`Oleron (Group 3), has to be considered.

Under handicap conditions, the Prix de Bar-le-Duc (10th race/5.35pm/90,000 euros/2850m) will be decided. Oracle Tile (Clement Duvaldestin) recommended himself for better tasks with his sovereign triumph in the Prix Michel Thoury (Course B), which also applies to Faubourg (Pierre-Yves Verva), who had decided a similar match in his favour on 14 December against Fifty Five Bond (Christophe Martens), among others. Gently de Muze (Jean-Michel Bazire) is particularly pleasing with his success in the final of the `GNT`, but he has to run 25 metres more than the first two. Echo de Chanlecy (Tony Le Belle) is in a better position than the Bazire protégé this time and a reversal of form is not out of the question. Hirondelle Sibey (Gabriele Gelormini) must be included in all considerations after class.

Interesting amateur racing in Paris

Paris-Vincennes, Friday, 30 December: Vincennes starts the weekend with an eight-race programme. The best class will be addressed in the Prix de Saint-Leonard (4th race/17.48 h/12.000 Euro/2850 m), an amateur race with horses of the higher winning category.

Chalimar de Guez (Yannick Desmet), who earns his money under the saddle and is usually only an extra in this metier, is burdened with a double allowance. The ten-year-old, who recently placed fourth in the Prix Jules Lemonnier (Group 2), is not beyond outside chances. Much more attention is paid to band colleague Doux Parfum (Barbara Guenet), for whom the last victory in the Prix du Languedoc (Group 3) and the subsequent place of honour speaks. Firello (Aldric Manta) makes his fourth start after the break and should finish well ahead of Doux Parfum judging by his second place in the final of the `GNT` just over a year ago. Burdened with easy handicaps are Gold d`Ecroville (Benjamin Marie) and Espit Chupitos (Francois Chapdelaine), both double winners. Go Fast de Vains (Julien Renault) is eligible for a top place without faults, which also applies to Feline de Janville (Veronique Grelin), who ran strongly in Amiens.

Mullins all set for the Matheson Hurdle

Leopardstown, Thursday 29 December: The Christmas Festival at Leopardstown concludes today with a seven-race programme.

The first highlight is a Group 1 Novice Chase (4th race/14.45pm/100,000 Euro/4828m) in which the Willie Mullins-trained Gaillard Du Mesnil (Paul Townend) is favourite after his runner-up finish at Fairyhouse. He will have to watch out for Gordon Elliott`s two charges, Three Stripe Life (Jack Kennedy) and Frontal Assualt (Jordan Gainford). The former did not jump clear recently, but before that he won a Beginners Chase in superior style. His training partner has already put in a good performance.

The Matheson Hurdle (5th race/15.20/150,000 Euro/3218 m) should be a prey for Willie Mullins, as the successful coach saddled three of the five participants who are among the closest favourites. State Man (Paul Townend) and Sharjah (P. Mullins) ran recently at Punchestown, where they finished first and second in the Morgiana Hurdle (Group 1). At the same venue, Vauban (Danny Mullins) was last at the expiry in April. He won the Champion Four Year Old Hurdle (Group 1) after pinning the Triumph Hurdle (Group 1) to his banner at Cheltenham.

Christmas Hurdle and Savills Chase in Leopardstown

Leopardstown, Wednesday, 28 December: The Christmas Festival continues today in Leopardstown with two more classic tests.

In the Christmas Hurdle (4th race/14.45/150,000 Euro/4827m) last year`s performances speak in favour of Flooring Porter (Danny Mullins). Trained by Gavin Cromwell, the seven-year-old won the fixture two years ago and finished second the following year. He currently ran in the Lismullen Hurdle (Group 2) and finished fourth. Joseph O`Brien`s Home By The Lee (J Slevin) won easily by two lengths from Bob Olinger (Rachael Blackmore) and Ashdale Bob (Keith Donoghue) and behind Flooring Porter were Sire Du Berlais (Mark Walsh), Commander Of Fleet (Sam Ewing) and Zanahiyr (Jack Kennedy). So the seven first-timers meet again.

The Savills Chase (5th race/15.20pm/200,000 euros/4827m) sees the 2021, 2020 and 2018 winners A Plus Tard (Rachael Blackmore), Galvin (Sam Ewing) and Kemboy (Paul Townend) come to the wire. The trio also finished in the top three places twelve months ago. A Plus Tard made his comeback after winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup (Group 1) at Haydock and did not get over the jumps without an accident. Kemboy and Galvin were currently second and fourth in Down Royal`s Champion Chase (Group 1). Conflated (Jack Kennedy) was third between the two. Here, the Elliott protégé won the Irish Gold Cup (Group 1) in February against Kemboy, among others.

Christmas Festival in Leopardstown, 2nd day

Leopardstown, Tuesday, December 27: Parallel to the Festival in Kempton, a four-day meeting with high-class steeplechase races is also taking place in Leopardstown, Ireland. Best race today is the Rewards Club Chase (3rd race/14.10pm/125,000 euros/3420m) with seven participants. High on the list are the horses of Willie Mullins, who saddles three in Chacun Pour Soi (Paul Townend), Blue Lord (Daryl Jacob) and Gentleman De Mee (Mark Walsh). The former finished second in Punchestown`s Champion Chase (Group 1) on his last appearance. Blue Lord currently won the Clonmel Oil Chase (Group 2), his second consecutive appearance. Gentleman De Mee drew off decently in fourth in the Tingle Creek Chase (Group 1), well behind the leaders. Thwarting the Mullins trio could be Captain Guinness (Rachael Blackmore), who attracted attention with a Group 2 win at Navan. Good class Andy Dufresne (Jack Kennedy), Coeur Sublime (B. Cooper) and Jeremys Flame (Keith Donoghue) complete the field with outside chances.

Edwardstone the favorite in the Desert Orchid Chase

Kempton, Tuesday, December 27: On the second day of the Christmas Festival at Kempton, the Desert Orchid Chase (4th race/15.30pm/100,000 pounds/3220m) takes center stage on the six-race card. Favorites are credited to Edwardstone (Tom Cannon), who has been performing consistently well for the past year and faces beatable competition here. On December 3, the Alan King-trained eight-year-old capped his career so far with victory in the Tingle Creek Chase (Group 1) over, among others, Funambule Sivola (Robert Dunne), who finished last but had previously won at Group 2 level at Newbury. For Edwardstone, Nube Negra (Harry Skelton) could become a stumbling block. The Skelton protégé won the game two years ago. Currently, he stapled the Shloer Chase (Group 2) to his banner by a superior eight lengths. Editeur Du Gite (Niall Houlihan), who was third in a Handicap Chase last time out, could be the main beneficiary of the failure of the Mean.

Christmas Festival in Kempton

Kempton, Monday, 26 December: The traditional Christmas Festival in Kempton offers top-class steeplechase sport over two days.

In the first highlight, the Long Walk Hurdle (2nd race/13.45 h/80,000 pounds/5029 m), Champ (Jonjo O`Neill jr.) will be defending his title. The ten-year-old won the Long Distance Hurdle (Group 2) at the dress rehearsal after battling Paisley Park (Aidan Coleman), who has already pinned the game to his banners twice. Goshen (Jamie Moore) currently triumphed in the Ascot Hurdle (Group 2) and Miranda (Harry Cobden) at List level on this course.

The Christmas Hurdle (4th race/14.55pm/150,000 pounds/3218m) should not be taken away from Constitution Hill (Nico de Boinville). The five-year-old last won the Fighting Fifth Hurdle (Group 1) in superior style against Epatante (Aidan Coleman) and was also other goods in his previous triumph at Cheltenham. At best, Sceau Royal (Sam Twiston-Davies), who was an easy winner here at List level in October, could intervene in the recent duel.

The King George VI Chase (5th race/15.30pm/250,000 pounds/4828m) sees L`Homme Presse (Charlie Deutsch) as the winner. Venetia Williams` charge, victorious in a Handicap Chase in November, will be challenged by Bravemansgame (Harry Cobden), who had no rivals to fear in the Charlie Hall Chase (Group 2) and found his way back to winning ways after an interruption. Envoi Allen (Rachael Blackmore) and Hitman (Sam Twiston-Davies) are other fresh winners with chances of a place in the front pack. Frodon (Bryony Frost) won the match two years ago.

Mülheim holiday with compensation II

Mülheim, Monday, 26 December: Christmas will end on Monday in Mülheim, with seven races between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm. With an Equalisation II over 2,000 metres, there is even a promising handicap in the programme.

The number one candidate for victory was supposed to be Delia (L. Wolff) from the stable of Uwe Schwinn, who still showed some potential for improvement. The Baden winner Lydia (A. Pietsch) can also be counted on again. Her trainer Waldemar Hickst even has a second iron in the fire with Lobelie (B. Ganbat). Marian Falk Weißmeier also has two horses here with Kiaz Apapa (L. Wolff) and Employer (A. v. d. Troost).

In the 1,500 metre competition for the youngest age group, Casall (St. Koyuncu) and Bärbelchen (S. Vogt) are on the verge of a victory. 10,000 euros beckon as a guaranteed payout in the final 7th race (Equalisation IV, 2,000 metres). Antonia von der Recke could score a point in the championship fight of the amateur riders with Little Hercules.

Seven steeplechase races in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Sunday, 25 December: The obstacle course on the Riviera is the venue for seven exciting races today. For the Prix du Comté de Nice (5th race/14.15 p.m./€60,000/4200 m), nine horses were left standing at the last cancellation.

After the impression Berjou (Nicolas Gauffenic) made here about a fortnight ago when winning over Rêve de Prince (Jean-Baptiste Breton), the eight-year-old is again seen ahead. He defeated Manon des Sources (Felix de Giles) in his triumph in the Grande Course de Haies de Pau (Listed race) in February, who currently announced herself with a third-place finish and is promoted. Garkapstar (Adrien Merienne) should not be overlooked as the winner of a `Classe 1` test over Coeur Nantais (Alexis Gautron). Peace Garden (Josef Bartos) did not get over the jumps without an accident in that match, but pleased with three wins in Meran before that.

Two classics at Christmas

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 24 December: Great races will also be decided at Vincennes at Christmas. Two classics for four- and five-year-old horses that can qualify for the Prix d`Amérique as well as a trotting race with older candidates will be in the spotlight.

The Prix Tenor de Baune (6th race/15.15pm/200,000 euros/2700m) appeals to the vintage of 2017. Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc) has qualified for the `Amérique` on his win total alone, but still wants to win this test. The Allaire protégé, who finished third in the Prix Doynel de Saint-Quentin (Group 2) last time out, will be challenged by Swedish Derby winner Calgary Games (Björn Goop), who recently gave a taste of his exceptional ability in Solvalla. Another promising contender from Sweden is Honey Mearas (Örjan Kihlström), who was not to be beaten in the recent Stoelites final and clearly left Barbro Kronos (Franck Ouvrie) behind. Happy Valley (Jean-Philippe Dubois) repeatedly came in ahead of Hohneck and should play a supporting role as well as Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon), the winner in the Prix de Belgique (Group 2) over Hooker Berry who later showed up in the Prix du Bourbonnais (Group 2).

In the Critérium Continental (8th race/16.25 h/200,000 Euro/2100 m) there will be a battle between Italy and France. Numerous horses from the boot country are represented with good chances, such as the established Cash Bank Bigi (Benjamin Rochard) and Callmethebreeze (Andrea Guzzinati) as well as Charmant de Zack (Jean-Michel Bazire), who makes his debut in the hands of the French champion. To beat is Instrumentaliste (Gabriele Gelormini), who surprisingly beat Idao de Tillard (Clement Duvaldestin) in the Prix Octave Douesnel (Group 2). Inmarosa (Leo Abrivard) battled Cash Bank Bigi for the win, a reversal of form is not out of the question. I Love Me (Yoann Lebourgeois) pulled off well behind.

The saddle trotters will contest the Prix Jules Lemonnier (7th race/15.50/120,000 Euro/2175 m). Granvillaise Bleue (Camille Levesque) knew how to convince in the Prix Paul Buquet (Group 2) even in defeat and goes into the race here as favourite. Clegs des Champs (David Thomain), Get Lovely Delo (Yoann Lebourgeois) and Chalimar de Guez (Jean-Yann Ricart), who came in behind her, are again speculating on a good placing.

Gelsenkirchen winner in the Grand Prix de Noel

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Friday, 23 December: Eight races are on the programme in Cagnes-sur-Mer today. The best class will be addressed in the Grand Prix de Noel (5th race/16.20 h/71,000 Euro/2700 m). Ecureuil Jenilou (Gwenn Junod), who showed up in Germany in the Grand Prix de Gelsenkirchen (Group 3), is the horse to beat.

Although he last jumped in the Final du Tour Europeen du Trotteur Francais in Belgium, he otherwise showed himself to be in the best winning mood here and in Switzerland. Cash du Rib (Jean Dersoir) surprised in the Grand Prix du Sud-Ouest (Group 2) as second ahead of Diablo de Caponet (Steve Stefano), who also exceeded expectations in sixth place. The Dersoir protégé was currently running in the final of the Grand National du Trot (Group 2) and failed to make the double allowance. Fakir du Ranch (Yannick-Alain Briand) and El Presidente (Kevin Devienne) had a hard time with handicaps eleven days ago, but still showed up in the front line. Both are to be watched, as are Eden Basque (Nicolas Ensch) and Duel du Gers (Matthieu Abrivard), who did not come around the course smoothly in their last appearances. Jerry Mom (David Bekaert) could do better again after a performance under saddle.

Sweet Master still on track for success?

Deauville, Thursday, 22 December: It continues today with eight races on the fibre sand track in Deauville. The Prix du Jardin d`Eau (race 6/16.45/20.000 Euro/1900 m) will test the form of Sweet Master (Fabien Lefebvre).

Trained by Waldemar Himmel for the Heidekraut stable, the six-year-old has been running reliably to the front for months and also brings his quarters victories, such as most recently in Chantilly, where he won a similar match by three-quarters of a length. King of Twist (Eddy Hardouin) is one of his main rivals, who can always be seen in front, especially on this course. On 29 November, he was second better than Diwan Senora (Aurelien Lemaitre), who missed a better premium not far back. Lago Santa (Tony Piccone) announced himself fourth and should be included in any consideration. Luci Del Faro (Alexis Pouchin) defeated King of Twist in October, now the weights have shifted in favour of the underdog. Mario Hofer saddles Asian Pearl (Gerald Mosse), who has remained unremarkable in four starts.

Saddle trotters in good form in the Prix Pierre Giffard

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, 21 December: Older saddle trotters of the medium winning category will contest today`s Prix Pierre Giffard (5th race/16.15 h/75,000 Euro/2850 m) on the Plateau de Gravelle. An almost identical match was decided here 13 days ago with the Prix d`Honfleur (Course B) and it ended with a big surprise.

It was not Fakir de l`Ecluse (Alexandre Abrivard) and Flower By Magalou (Eric Raffin), who were favoured on the betting market, who were ahead in the end, but Dorgali (Loanne Fauchon) and Esperanza Idole (Jean-Yann Ricart). The two outsiders settled the victory between themselves and behind them Falco Berry (Matilde Herleiksplass) was still in the picture while the mean ones saw `red`. Fakir de l`Ecluse won a ride against Fiaschetto for this in October, who later turned the tables in the Prix de l`Ile d`Oleron (Group 3) in the battle for second place. In Flower By Magalou`s favour is the honourable mention in a `C` ride on 10 November. One who could put a spanner in everyone`s works is Kennedy (Adrien Lamy), who has won several times in France this year and later even competed in the Yonkers International Trot in the USA, finishing fifth. Figaro de Larre (Benjamin Rochard) is also considered for the front. Most recently, he won his tenth race here this season.

List Final with Ability in Deauville

Deauville, Tuesday, 20 December: The last Listed race of the European Flat season will be decided today in Deauville. The Prix Petite Etoile (2nd race/17.20 h/55,000 Euro/1900 m) is aimed at three-year-old mares.

Waldemar Hickst saddled Ability (Gerald Mosse), who was unplaced in the Prize of Diana (Group 1), for Ittlingen Stud. The Mastercraftsman-daughter made two more starts afterwards, she did not finish higher than sixth in the St. Leger (Group 3) as well as in the Waldpfad-Trophy (Group 3). A lot of strong-form opponents stand in the way of the three-year-old, such as Night Battle (Alexis Pouchin) and Colombidea (Marie Velon), who travelled from England with a recent victory. Katoucha (Eddy Hardouin) easily won a `Classe 1` in Marseille and must be noted as well. Suyian (Clement Lecoeuvre) announced herself second on the sand track in Chantilly. Qitura (Stephane Pasquier) met it challenging twice at list level, today`s task could taste the two-time winner of the season. Soldanelle (Aurelien Lemaitre) is known to the German audience from Düsseldorf, where she finished third in the Diana Trial. Aunt Bethany (Theo Bachelot) disappointed in Fontainebleau, could be further again this time at longer distance.

Kiss Queen due for victory

Lyon, Monday, December 19: Eight races will be run today at the Hippodrome in Lyon-La Soie. A sales race, run as Prix Cinq Cinq (7th race/20.00pm/12,000 euros/2150m), is the target of Waldemar Hickst with Kiss Queen (Aurelien Lemaitre), who is still winless this year despite two very good performances (second in Compiegne and Clairefontaine). She could be threatened by Pink Birthday (Marie Velon), who announced herself emphatically with a third place here in November and could also benefit from the weight advantage, as could Chaam (Ambre Molins) and Fullditch (Manon Germain). Amie Soledad (Thomas Thrullier) is recommended by his win at Longchamp in October. At the last appearance, the gelding ended clearly behind Sibuyu (Tony Piccone), who finished a good third in the handicap.

Saddle trotters on a big stage

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, December 18: Great races will be decided today at Vincennes, where two qualifiers for the Prix de Cornulier will take center stage.


In the Prix Jag de Bellouet (5th race/13.23pm/200,000 euros/2700m), the four-year-old saddle trotters are among themselves. Izoard Vedaquais (Eric Raffin) makes his debut in this discipline. The Allaire protégé has won 15 of his 24 starts, but currently he is not really winning. In his most recent appearance, he even came away empty-handed, landing on the `tower` after an extensive canter. His main challenge is Intuition (Adrien Lamy), who proved his great class in the Prix des Elites (Group 1). In a commanding manner, she defeated Ines des Rioults (Benjamin Rochard) and Ideale du Chêne (Paul Philipp Ploquin), who are again in contention for places. The latter two were just six days ago in the Prix Philippe du Rozier (Group 2) at the expiry and were defeated by the outstanding Inshore (Alexandre Abrivard).


Five-year-old Monté specialists are the target of the Prix Bilibili (7th race/14.33pm/200,000 euros/2700m), in which Hirondelle du Rib (Jean Dersoir) is due to win. The five-year-old announced herself emphatically a week ago in the Prix Herve Ceran-Maillard (Group 2), but in the end had to let Balsamine Font (Leo Abrivard) and Happy and Lucky (Adrien Lamy) draw clear. Judging by the result in the Prix Edmond Henry (Group 2), Hanna des Molles also has first chances. She defeated Happy and Lucky after a fight, who in turn clearly left Hannah (Eric Raffin), Heradames (David Thomain) and Hirondelle du Rib behind.


Another Group 1 level riding will be held with the Prix de Vincennes (3rd race/12.10pm/240,000 euros/2700m). J`Aime le Foot (David Thomain) already rose to become a classic winner in the Saint-Leger des Trotteur. In the Prix Raoul Balliere (Group 2), the three-year-old did not come into his own as expected and was clearly beaten by stablemate Joyner Sport (Alexandre Abrivard) as well as Jakartas des Pres (Julien Balu) and Joyeuse (Mathieu Mottier). Jaguar du Goutier (Damien Bonne), who had recommended himself for bigger tasks with a superior triumph on December 1, could interfere in the renewed duel. Jessy de Banville (Florian Desmigneux), who lost out to J`Aime le Foot in Caen, must also be taken into account.

Quebec Stakes at Lingfield

Lingfield, Saturday, December 17: Closing today`s seven-race card at Lingfield is the Quebec Stakes (7th race/16.33pm/£45,000/2010m), the main event on the program. The Listed race sees Algiers (Jack Mitchell) from the stable of Simon and Ed Crisford as the horse to beat. In his most recent appearance here in an All Weather Championships qualifier, the five-year-old narrowly missed out on victory. Also in the field were his fellow competitors today, Harrovian (William Buick), Forest Of Dean (Robert Havlin) and Tyson Fury (Daniel Tudhope), all of whom the Crisford charge was able to leave well behind. In Harrovian`s favor is last year`s honorable mention finish in the Churchill Stakes (Listed) just a half-length behind Pyledriver, winner of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (Group 1) over Torquator Tasso. Makinmedoit (Hayley Turner) won her last appearance on dirt and is not out of the question as a winner. Yorkshire Lady (Joanna Mason) is struggling.

Two-year-old stallions in the Prix Emmanuel Margouty

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, December 17: For the 2020 stallion crop, it`s all about Group 2 points for the first time today in Vincennes in the Prix Emmanuel Margouty (7th race/17.35/120,000 euros/2700 m). Of course, the stars from the stable of Philippe Allaire are not missing. The eyes are primarily on Koctel du Dain (David Thomain), who, like his stablemate Kurtiss (Franck Nivard), has not yet lost a race in Vincennes when running faultlessly. Knockonwood (Alexandre Abrivard) completes the Allaire force. In the Prix Timoko (Group 3) he lost to Kamehameha (Eric Raffin), who immediately rectified the previous defeat in the Prix Louis Cauchois (Group 3) against King Opera (William Bigeon). The latter in turn brought it to four wins so far, two of them at higher level and against Kamehameha, Knockonwood and Canada (Theo Duvaldestin), who always sold himself magnificently in good company.

Eight sand races in Deauville

Deauville, Friday 16 December: Eight races will be run today at the Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques. Among the better races, in penultimate place, is the Prix Vodkato (7th race/5.30pm/27,000 euros/1900m), a `Classe 2` test with twelve entrants.

Gregolimo (Ioritz Mendizabal) last won on the Fibersand track in Pau against the slightly higher rated Alessandro (Jean-Bernard Eyquem) and fully confirmed the place of honour achieved before in Longchamp. A victory of the stallion trained by Simone Brogi should be possible, but Invincible Light (Stephane Pasquier), who ran very well in Chantilly, also announces first chances. In his third place he was only just beaten for silver, but clearly better than Kenway (Hugo Journiac) and Charlesquint (Gregory Benoist), who was a glaring disappointment when finishing last, but should run better again this time. Hooking (Aurelien Lemaitre) did well to finish third in a `Classe 1` handicap here on 6 November. Irska (Mickael Barzalona) will try it over sand, after she could not convince at list level in Fontainebleau. Before that, the five-year-old finished a good fifth in a Group 3 race.

Lajoscha over sand for the first time

Deauville, Thursday, 15 December: The Fibersand track in Deauville is again the venue for eight exciting races today. The Prix Arcangues (5th race/16.10/52,000 Euro/2500 m) appeals to eleven horses and will be decided with German participation thanks to Andreas Wöhler`s Lajoscha (Mickael Barzalona).

The four-year-old recently gave an impressive performance in Chantilly, where he won superiorly over grass as a giant outsider and later confirmed the performance in Munich with a place of honour. It remains to be seen how Lajoscha will perform on the sand track for the first time. Beholding (Gerald Mosse) has already won twice on today`s ground. Since his place of honour in April, the Reynier protégé has not been on the course. He gets shooting help from Stormy Pouss (Clement Lecoeuvre), who announced herself third in Salon-de-Provence. Behtar (Tony Piccone) had no trouble celebrating his second victory in Chantilly, defeating Matauri Gold (Eddy Hardouin), who completes the group of three-year-olds together with Maximus (Enzo Corallo), who was second in the Prix Noailles (Group 3).

Dynasty Peji a serial winner in the Prix Auguste Francois?

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, 14 December: Today`s event on the Plateau de Gravelle goes over with eight races. Once again, the older saddle trotters take centre stage. In the Prix Auguste Francois (6th race/16.50 h/90,000 Euro/2175 m) nine horses will start.

Dynasty Peji (Damien Bonne), who won two Group 2 races within a short period of time, can undoubtedly be described as a shooting star in the Monté business. In the Prix Reynolds, he defeated the higher rated Chalimar de Guez (Jean-Yann Ricard) over the distance required today and also showed his great class over a longer distance in the Prix Paul Buquet. In addition to the aforementioned Chalimar de Guez, his opponents include Florida Sport (Matthieu Mottier), who enters with frighteningly weak form. Last year`s victory over Freeman de Houelle (Eric Raffin), who later won the Prix de I`Ile de France (Group 1), speaks in his favour. The latter is currently in a crisis of form. He last won the Prix Paul Delanoe (Group 3) in June against Chalimar de Guez. Jerry Mom (David Thomain) is trying again under the saddle and should not be missing in any consideration due to his class.

Sadanori in the Quinté Handicap

Chantilly, Tuesday 13 December: With eight races to go, the sand track at Chantilly will host the next event. The `Classe-2` Quinté Handicap, run as the Prix du Jardin des Eaux Minerales (4th race/13.50 h/50,000 Euro/3200 m), will take centre stage as it often does.

Waldemar Hickst saddles Sadanori (Augustin Madamet), who runs over sand for the third time. A year ago, the Samum daughter competed in a Steher test in Deauville and came in fourth behind the winning Baden Rocks (Alexis Pouchin), who has run without exception in Quinté handicaps in recent months and even managed to win. A fortnight ago, the five-year-old expired in Deauville and came in not far behind the top five finishers. Naishan (Rosario Mangione) announced himself emphatically when finishing third at Longchamp. The gelding can win the match as well as Kapani (Axelle Nicco), Quick Flash (Ambre Molins), Always Welcome (Theo Bachelot) and Great Tonio (Alexis Roussel), who should not be missing from any consideration with their fresh winning forms.

Eight races in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 12 December: Eight `normal` races are on the programme at Vincennes at the beginning of the week. Saddle trotters in the prize category up to 145,000 euros will contest the Prix de Nimes (2nd race/17.03 hrs/40,000 euros/2850 m). The young rider category sees Gui d`Erable (Leo Balu) as the winner.

The six-year-old won a similar fixture here just under a fortnight ago with great authority over Guapo Marboula (Alan Gendrot), who finished second to Moses (Celine Eliane Lemaire) in good keeping before that. Mateo de Reve (Tiphaine Levesque) runs equally strong in front of the sulky and under saddle. His last victory was in November. Garry Thoris (Thomas Roullier) should not be judged by his current form in front of the sulky, which also applies to the Swedish guest Upper Face (Celine Hubin), who already showed an approach here a year ago. Gavroche Best (Alexandre Bodin) is diligently collecting place money, which he should be able to do again this time.

Cast off in Dortmund: Sand winter starts

Dortmund, Sunday, 11 December: Two weeks before Christmas, the sand track season will start on Sunday, attracting the specialists for this surface to Dortmund once again. Six races will be held here at the premiere between 11:20 am and 1:50 pm. PMU will show the first four races in France.

The highlight is an Equaliser III over 1,800 metres, which could be won by Asaaleeb (M. Cadeddu), who just had victory in sight in Mons. But his conqueror Aradous (St. Koyuncu) will also be in the running again. Especially in the forms from Baden-Baden Laterani (M. Pecheur) seems to be first choice. Lightning Jock (J. Boysen) is the Ausgleich II winner on grass.

10,000 Euros will be paid out in the four-way bet of the 4th race (Equalisation IV, 2,500 m). Orkan von Marlow (J. Boysen) and Smaragd (A. v. d. Troost) are two of the potential horses.

International Races with Mendocino

Sha Tin, Sunday, 11 December: The International Races in Hong Kong again attract numerous fans in front of the screens at an early hour. The first highlight, the Hong Kong Vase (4th race/7.10am/22m HK$/2400m), will be decided with German participation. Sarah Steinberg will saddle Mendocino (Rene Piechulek), who finished twelfth in the `Arc de Triomphe` last time out, for the Salzburg stable and will face a total of nine opponents. Other chances from Europe are, above all, Stone Age (Ryan Moore) and stablemate Broome (Yutaka Take), who ran strongly in the Breeders` Cup and is trained by Aidan O`Brien, Bubble Gift (Christophe-Patrice Lemaire) and Botanik (William Buick). The favourite for the race is last year`s winner Glory Vase (Joao Moreira).

In the Hong Kong Mile (7th race/9.00am/3m HK$/1600m), Golden Sixty (C. Ho), who has run without exception so far at Sha Tin, will try to record the 23rd win of his 26-start career. The seven-year-old won as expected in the Jockey Club Mile (Group 2) dress rehearsal, but had to fight hard against California Spangle (Zac Purton). Waikuku (Silvestre de Sousa) and More Than This (K. Leung) completed the ranking.

The Hong Kong Cup (8th race/9.40am/34m HK$/2000m) also guarantees an exciting outcome. Unbeaten here since March, Romantic Warrior (James McDonald) will try to stay on the winning track, but will not have an easy time of it with Panthalassa (Yutaka Yoshida) and Jack d`Or (Yutaka Take), who have run strongly at Group 1 level recently in Japan. Aidan O`Brien tries to get into the final fight with Order Of Australia (Ryan Moore).

Four-year-olds at Group 2 level

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 10 December: Separate paths will be taken by four-year-old mares and stallions in two Group 2 races at Vincennes today.

First, the `weaker sex` will be addressed in the Prix Ariste Hemard (3rd race/15.15/120,000 euros/2700m). Inoubliable (Eric Raffin), third in the final of the Grand Prix de l`U.E.T. (Group 1) and later in the Prix Marcel Laurent (Group 2), is overdue for victory but has a tough chunk to get out of the way with Inmarosa (Leo Abrivard), second in front of her in the Critérium des 4 Ans (Group 1). Isla Jet (Matthieu Abrivard) is the only competitor to show fresh winning form, but the Malmqvist mare is hitting it much harder. Idylle Speed (Franck Niavard) runs reliably to the front. She is well remembered for her victory in the Prix Guy Le Gonidec (Group 2) over Inmarosa, Ivanka de Jilme (Paul Philippe Ploquin), I Want You (Julien Dubois), Icone de Castelle (Alexandre Abrivard) and Inoubliable.

There is no doubt that Idao de Tillard (Clement Duvaldestin) is the favourite in the Prix Octave Douesnel (4th race/15.50/120,000 Euro/2700 m). The four-year-old immediately found his way back to winning ways after two `red` forms in the Grand Prix du Sud-Ouest (Group 2) and then once again left no doubt about his great class in the Prix Marcel Lauent (Group 2). Ideal du Pommeau (Matthieu Abrivard) made a name for himself as the final winner in the `U.E.T.`. Later he followed up in the Prix de Chenonceaux (Group 3), leaving Ideal Ligneries (Franck Nivard) well behind. Italiano Vero (David Thomain) defeated the Guarato protégé in the Critérium des 4 Ans (Group 1) and also gave Izoard Vedaquais (Eric Raffin) and Instrumentaliste (Gabriele Gelormini) a clear rebuff. Carlomagno d`Esi (Alexandre Abrivard) currently won a highly decorated test in Italy against Capital Mail (Mario Minopoli jr.), among others. In his last appearance in Vincennes, he lost to his compatriot Cocco Bfc (Franck Ouvrie).

Epatante the logical favourite in the International Hurdle

Cheltenham, Saturday 10 December: On the second day of the Festival at Cheltenham, the International Hurdle (5th race/15.25pm/130,000 pounds/3380m) takes centre stage on the seven-race card. Five horses are vying to succeed Guard Your Dreams (winner in 2021), with Epatante (Aidan Coleman) fancying his first chance.

Nicky Henderson`s mare, who was last runner-up in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle (Group 1) behind the `unlosable` Constitution Hill, last ran at Cheltenham during the Spring Festival and came in a very good second behind Honeysuckle. However, Epatante faces no walkover as I Like To Move It (Sam Twiston-Davies), winner here on 13 November, and Knappers Hill (Harry Cobden), unbeaten in four starts, are anything but place money contenders. First Street (Nico de Boinville), who showed up at Newbury, can also win the race. Only Zoffania (Daniel King) has little to speak of.

International Festival in Cheltenham

Cheltenham, Friday, 9 December: The International Festival takes place at Cheltenham this weekend. There are seven races on the programme today and among the better tests is the `Class 1` Handicap Chase (5th race/15.25pm/70,000 pounds/5230m).

Venetia Williams saddles last year`s superior 15-length winner Commodore, who is aiming for a title defence with his permanent rider Charlie Deutsch. The ten-year-old last competed in the Grand National and finished far behind. Hardly rated worse is Captain Cattistock (Liam Harrison), who did respectably on his comeback here in a similar fixture, finishing third and only just beaten by the runner-up. Eva`s Oskar (Alan Johns) also pleased on this course on 13 November when second, having probably felt the break on his appearance at Kelso. Nassalam (Jamie Moore) has run twice at Cheltenham, so far without any countable yield. Nevertheless, the five-year-old should not be disregarded because of his class. Switch Hitter (Harry Cobden) runs reliably to the front but, like Undersupervision (Sam Twiston-Davies), has not raced since April. Spiritofthegames (Harry Skelton) already showed good performances here.

Kick-off with the Prix Jean Boillereau

Paris-Vincennes, Thursday, 8 December: Vincennes starts the weekend with an eight-race programme. It will start with the Prix Jean Boillereau (1st race/13.50 h/90,000 Euro/2100 m), a `Course-A` race advertised for older European horses of the higher winning category.

First chances are given to Zaccaria Bar (Matthieu Abrivard), who currently celebrated a highly superior victory in the Prijs der Giganten in Wolvega. The Italian will have to face Copsi (Dominik Locqueneux). In his final season, the ten-year-old found great form once again, winning the Grand Prix du Centre-Est (Group 3) and later confirming the performance in the Prix du Languedoc (Group 3) when fourth ahead of Crack Money (Cedric Terry), Dexter Chatho (Charles Julien Bigeon) and Elite du Jiel (Francois Lagadeuc), who are again among his opponents. Barbro Kronos (David Thomain), running in France for the first time, won a higher-grade mares` race in Sweden in the summer and announced herself emphatically when fourth at Solvalla after a short break. Marcello Wibb (Christophe Martens) finished third in two similar tests in November. A full success for the Martens protégé was not to be long in coming. Fric du Chene (Paul Philippe Ploquin) repeatedly failed to break through to the front with maximum allowance. Today`s task looks comparatively easy. Heliade du Goutier (Gabriele Gelormini) deserves a hint as second in the Prix de Chenonceaux (Group 3).

International Jockeys` Championship in Hong Kong

Happy Valley, Wednesday, 7 December: A foretaste of the International Races next weekend in Happy Valley is available today with the Jockey Championship. Riders from Hong Kong and all over the world will meet in four heats. Ryan Moore, Hollie Doyle, Tom Marquand and Mickael Barzalona will be competing for Europe. Australia sends Jamie Kah and Hugh Bowman into the race and New Zealand is represented by James McDonald. The local jockeys are first and foremost last year`s winner Zac Purton, Lyle Hewitson, Vincent Ho, Silvestre de Sousa and Matthew Chadwick.

The chances of all participants in the 4th, 5th, 7th and 8th races:

Zac Purton: Supreme Lucky, Copartner Era, Packing Famous, Xponential
Ryan Moore: Fabulous Eight, Baby, Viva Hunter, Beauty Glory
Hollie Doyle: Universal Crown, Kung Fu Tea, Rising From Ashes, Stormtrouper
Tom Marquand: Juneau Flash, Spicy Grill, Winning Dragon, California Vanes
Mickael Barzalona: Circuit Seven, Win Win Fighter, The Anomaly, Namjong Sings
James McDonald: Valhalla, Yee Cheong Warior, Nimble Nimbus, Pleasant Endeavor
Jamie Kah: Momentum Galaxy, Free Foal, All Beauty, Red Lion
Lyle Hewitson: Charming Steed, Sunny Delight, Red Majesty, Here Comes Ted
Vincent Ho: Handsome Rebel, Lifeline Vision, Amazing One Plus, Mr Valiant
Silvestre de Sousa: Oversubscribed, Star Contact, Storm Legend, Adios
Matthew Chadwick: Faribault, My Intelligent, Captain Win, Gold Marquis
Hugh Bowman: Forte, Royal Pride, Setanta, Happy Sharing

Interesting races in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 5 December: A very ordinary racing day takes place at the Plateau de Gravelle at the beginning of the week. The highest class of the day with seven- and eight-year-old horses up to 200,000 euros in winnings is addressed in the introductory Prix des Alpes (1st race/13.50 h/53,000 euros/2100 m).

Five current winners will be competing in the 16-strong field, of whom Floreal (Franck Nivard) should have the best chance of winning this `Course D`. The gelding prevailed safely in a similar fixture in October, beating longest outsider Fogo Pico (Florian Joseph) and Filarete du Verger (Philippe Daugeard), among others, into fourth and seventh place. Falcon d`Espace (Romain Hue) pleases with consistently strong performances, which he had, however, achieved in the provinces and meets completely different opponents here. In Lisieux he defeated Flash de Vely (Sebastien Ernault), who was unbeatable in Caen before. Fameux Sax (Paul Philippe Ploquin) confirmed his success in Reims as an underdog. The stakes are not much higher for him this time. Fossoyeur (Michael Izzo) is still well remembered as the September winner. Foster Wood (Christophe Martens) had his last taste of success almost six months ago. The latter two are conceivable in the closer decision, which also applies to the in-form Franklin de Mesley (Francois Lecanu).

Honeysuckle the superstar in Fairyhouse

Fairyhouse, Sunday, 4 December: No less than three classic steeplechase races are on the programme on today`s second day of the Winter Festival at Fairyhouse. The absolute highlight is the Hatton`s Grace Hurdle (6th race/15.30/120.000 Euro/4023 m), in which Honeysuckle (Rachael Blackmore) makes her comeback.

The unbeaten exceptional mare has won 16 races so far, including twelve at Group 1 level and seven over this course. The eight-year-old has pinned the Hatton`s Grace Hurdle to her banner for the last three years and would top the all-time leaderboard if she were to triumph again, which would also be the case with her permanent rider. Whether Honeysuckle remains on the winning track depends primarily on Klassical Dream (Paul Townend), who finished second to L`Autonomie in the Grande Course de Haies d`Auteuil (Group 1) last time out. Echoes In Rain (P. Mullins) was third in the picture when Honeysuckle won the Irish Champion Hurdle (Group 1). Together with the reliably placing Ashdale Bob (Sean O`Keeffe) she closes the circle of horses with good chances.

`GNT`-Final in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 4 December: The next banger racing day in Paris-Vincennes follows today with numerous highly remunerated races. The highlight of the day is the `Clôture`, the final of the Grand National du Trot racing series (8th race/15.15/150,000 euros/2850 m), featuring many protagonists of the provincial circuit.

The Group 2 fixture will be started from three tapes. From the basic mark, Gently de Muze (Jean-Michel Bazire) registers first chances despite a mixed form. Bandmate Goeland d`Haufor (Charles Julien Bigeon) narrowly failed to beat the speedy Echo de Chanlecy (Tony Le Beller) in the Nantes stage, but was also favourable in defeat to Fragonard Delo (Franck Nivard), who is also favourable from the front. Gamay de l`Iton (Gabriele Gelormini) made his mark in Mauquenchy, not giving Edy du Pommereux (David Bekaert) and Duel du Gers (Benjamin Rochard), among others, the slightest chance. Fakir de Mahey (Mathieu Mottier) and Fine Colline (Matthieu Mottier) are other fresh track winners with a chance to win this race. Feydeau Seven (Nicolas Bazire) runs differently but deserves a stronger hint because of his class.

Over 255,000 euros in the jackpot in Baden-Baden!

Baden-Baden, Saturday, 03 December 2022: Baden Galopp is breaking new ground on Saturday, because for the first time there will be a Winter Magic Race Day in Baden-Baden-Iffezheim with seven races between 10:50 am and 1:55 pm.

The "7gewinnt!" bet is a hot one. 255,662.22 Euros are now in the jackpot after four missed draws! The highlight is the Equalisation II over 2,200 metres, which is very well endowed with 12,000 Euros. Night Ocean (L. Wolff) and Lydia (M. Abik) are likely to be horses with further potential.

In the two-year-old race over 1,800 metres, Serienmond (B. Murzabayev) could now make up for the victory he missed in Halle. Straight (J. Bojko) can also score points directly.

The Equalisation III over 1,600 metres is also appealing. Camiro (B. Murzabayev) might not have reached his limits yet after the Munich impression. The third consecutive score by Moher (W. Panov) is also possible. Over 2,400 metres the match is very open. Lordano (R. Piechulek) showed some potential.

10,000 Euros each are offered in the quadruple bet of the 3rd race (Equalisation IV, 1,800 metres) and in the 6th race (Equalisation III, 1,600 metres).

Hohneck tests Hip Hop Haufor in the

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday 3 December: the first of three Group 2 tests this afternoon at the Plateau de Gravelle, the Prix Doynel de Saint-Quentin (2nd race/14.33pm/120,000 euros/2850m) is aimed at five-year-old horses competing in front of the sulky.

Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc), trained by Philippe Allaire, clearly stands out by win total, but after a period of winlessness and a recent defeat in the Prix Marcel Laurent (Group 2), his position as favourite may be doubted. Happy Valley (Jean-Philippe Monclin) and Heraut d`Armes (Jean-Michel Bazire) finished ahead of Hohneck in that match, which was no surprise at least in the case of the latter, as the Bazire protégé already snatched victory away from the millionaire in the European Championships for five-year-olds (Group 1). Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon) set a sign for the following Prix de Belgique (Group 2) in third place, not far from the two fastest, which he won safely in the final sprint. Bleff Dipa (Alexandre Abrivard) is making his second appearance in the winter meeting. His best result so far was fourth place in the Critérium Continental (Group 1) behind the victorious Hohneck.

Kick-off of the Tingle Creek Festival

Sandown, Friday 2 December: The Tingle Creek Festival at Sandown Park begins today with a six-race programme. The best race of the day is the Winter Novices Hurdle (4th race/15.20pm/60,000 pounds/3980m), with six in-form contenders vying for Group 2 honours.

Henri The Second (Kielan Woods) announced himself emphatically when second in a Maiden Hurdle in October. He is seen as the winner on the betting market, but Man At Work (Tom Scudamore) is also in contention for the front, who enjoyed an easy success at Aintree on November 5, beating Henry`s Friend (Harry Cobden) by over six lengths to finish third. Maximilian (Brian Hughes) has yet to lose a race both on the flat course and over today`s jumps. It remains to be seen how he does against today`s opponents. I`d Like To Know (Tom Cannon) and Park This One (Gavin Sheehan) are also fresh winners but will have to improve considerably.

Granvillaise Bleue against Fantaisie in the Prix Paul Buquet

Paris-Vincennes, Thursday, 1 December: Saddle trotters of the higher winning category will contest the Prix Paul Buquet (7th race/17.20/120,000 Euro/2850 m), which belongs to Group 2, at Vincennes today. Granvillaise Bleue (Camille Levesque) is one of the favourites.

Trained by Pierre Levesque, the mare won her last appearances under saddle and in between she `practised` in front of the sulky, but always ended up unplaced. Among her greatest successes is the triumph here in the Prix des Centaures (Group 1). Currently, the Jag de Bellouet daughter triumphed at Group 3 level ahead of Du Scion (Alexandre Angot) and Chalimar de Guez (Jean-Yann Ricart), who cut a good figure in the next places, while Freeman de Houelle (Eric Raffin) disappointed and no longer seems to be the horse from the first half of the year. Fantaisie (Francois Lagadeuc) immediately stands out with her winning streak. Here she won three times at Group 3 level against Dynasty Peji (Damien Bonne) and Edition Gema (Gaelle Godard), among others. Get Lovely Delo (Yoann Lebourgeois) is hardly worse. The least winning horse in the field has won six of her last nine starts. Clegs des Champs (David Thomain) is an absolute expert in his field, but after a break of more than half a year, he will probably not show everything yet.