Total knockout with chances of winning

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Tuesday, 31 January: Eight races are on the programme in Cagnes-sur-Mer today. The German guests start at full throttle in the introductory Prix Adolphe Rossio (1st race/13.05 h/26,000 Euro/1600 m), which will be decided by a total of seven horses.

Total Knockout (Alexis Pouchin) from the stable of Stefan Richter already ran here last year and came out of the meeting successfully with one victory and one place of honour each. After another triumph in August and third place in the Quinté Handicap in Chantilly, he took a short break. Michael Figge`s Saphira Dream (Ambre Molins) and Marian-Falk Weissmeier`s Contessa Verde (Jerome Cabre) have considerably less to show. Both mares have the advantage in terms of condition, but did not stand out in their local engagements. The way to victory leads via Yoozuna (Maxime Guyon), saddled by Christophe Ferland. In his favour is the list win in November in Deauville, where National Service (Antonio Orani) delivered a strike result in the Prix Luthier (list race), but later put his good form right with a third place. Sweetheart (Clement Lecoeuvre) was already better than her stablemate Yoozuna when third in September and this time the weight difference is even more serious. Resacon (Ioritz Mendizabal) arrives from Spain with enticing form.

German guests in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 30 January: Smaller rolls are baked at today`s event in Vincennes. Nevertheless, the eight-race card is not lacking in excitement and in the Prix d`Yvetot (7th race/17.20 hrs/33,000 Euro/2700 m) two German horses are also in the mix.

From the champion stable of Wolfgang Nimczyk comes Midsommer Records (Michael Nimczyk), who tries to stay on the winning track after an extremely successful last year, which culminated in victory in the auction race for four-year-olds. Among the few string results was the flawed performance in the German Derby, in which Oblivion (Gabriele Gelormini) from Erwin Bot`s quarters finished a good sixth. The two five-year-olds were victorious in their first performances in Hamburg and Gelsenkirchen respectively. Fred König was responsible for Gentle du Noyer (Thomas Panschow). With a purse of 17,375 Euros, he is the lowest-priced competitor in the field, and although he has won four of his last five starts, he has a comparatively tougher time of it than at home. The Germans` main opponents include Cantab As (Christophe Martens), who finished fourth last year, and Cardoso Dr (Pietro Gubellini) and Cupido Cup (Santo Mollo), who are coming from Italy and who have currently impressed with their placings.

101st Prix d`Amérique in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 29 January: The winter meeting on the Plateau de Gravelle culminates today with the Prix d`Amérique (7th race/16.25/1 million Euro/2700 m), which has the maximum number of 18 horses on paper, but has to cope with one non-runner due to the early withdrawal of Etonnant. Here are the participants according to their starting places

1 Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon): Won the first preliminary test in the Prix de Bretagne over the distance required today, did not make much of an appearance in three other appearances. His sire Up and Quick triumphed eight years ago.
2 Horsy Dream (Eric Raffin): Is described as a shooting star who is unbeaten in the current meeting and proved all doubters wrong by winning the Prix de Belgique.
3 Hussard du Landret (Benoit Robin): Ran his best race when second in the Prix du Bourbonnais and only ran at the back in other appearances.
4 Ampia Mede Sm (Franck Nivard): Always gives her best, but has not yet made her breakthrough at the highest level. Already last year she was considered to have a good chance for the `Amérique`, but then got lost in the qualification.
5 Decoloration (Gabriele Gelormini): Improved from start to start, should no longer be underestimated, has what it takes to run in the race.
6 Idao de Tillard (Clement Duvaldestin): Won the Critérium Continental and the Prix de Croix, but lacked sparkle recently. Attributed to his phlegm. Along with Italiano Vero, is the youngest competitor in the field.
7 Honey Mearas (Örjan Kihlström): Left everything to be desired in Prix Tenor de Baune, can really only benefit from his rider.
8 Italiano Vero (David Thomain: Was at least better in the Prix Octave Douesnel than Idao Tillard, who starts as favourite.
9 Hooker Berry (Jean-Michel Bazire): Easy winner in the Prix du Bourbonnais, fell short of expectations in the trainer`s hands a fortnight ago.
10 Moni Viking (Björn Goop): Showed good work performances. Does not get beyond the outsider role after finishing eighth in the Prix de Belgique.
11 Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc): Last year`s fifth and currently a busy place money collector, who enjoyed his last success here in August in the Prix Louis Jariel against Hooker Berry, Hussard du Landret and Hip Hop Haufor among others.
12 Vernissage Grif (Alessandro Gocciadoro): Hasn`t made much of an appearance in France yet. His recommendation is the victory in the Gran Premio Lotteria over Vivid Wise As.
13 Don Fanucci Zet (Yoann Lebourgeois): Broke off the France campaign early last year after an unsuccessful effort in the Prix de Bourgogne. There is a big question mark behind him.
14 Flamme du Goutier (Theo Duvaldestin): Repeated his victory in the Prix du Cornulier a week ago. Showed twelve months ago when third in the `Amérique` that she is one of the really tough ones.
15 Cokstile (Vincenzo Piscuoglio Dell`Annunziata): Could not distinguish himself in the current meeting. Only last year`s triumph in the Prix de Bourgogne over Vivid Wise As speaks for him.
16 Delia du Pommereux (Pierre-Yves Verva): French `grande dame` who is now trusted with everything after her success over Flamme du Goutier.
18 Vivid Wise As (Matthieu Abrivard): Finished below value in the Prix du Bourbonnais. Since then, last year`s fourth place finisher has taken a break due to illness.

Strongly contested Prix du Luxembourg

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 28 January: The day before the Prix d`Amérique is traditionally dominated by the Prix du Luxembourg (4th race/15.15/100,000 Euro/2100 m), which this year is more open than ever before thanks to an international line-up. The German-bred Mister F Daag (Robin Bakker) enters the meeting for the first time and should play a leading role with his good starting position. Ferrari Sisu (Conrad Lugauer) recently showed in the Sylvesterloppet that his best form continues. He will meet Milliondollarrhyme (Franck Nivard), whom he had clearly defeated in the Guld Divisions. Beads (Jean-Michel Bazrie) did not manage the direct qualification for the `Amérique`, but pleased in the Prix Tenor de Baune (Group 1) as third. Hirondelle Sibey (Louis Baudouin), Elvis du Vallon (David Thomain) and Bleff Dipa (Alexandre Abrivard) are three more promising participants.

For the three-year-olds, two races separated by sex will be contested for Group 2 honours. For the fillies in the Prix Roquepine (5th race/15.50/150,000 euros/15.50), the path to victory leads through Kalamity d`Heripre (Franck Nivard), with the losing Kana de Beylev (Benjamin Rochard) also expected to be well in front. Kracovia (Jean-Michel Bazire) stood above her opponents in `normal` tasks, this time it will be a touch harder.

The stallions will contest the Prix Paul Viel (7th race/17.00/150.000 Euro/2700 m). After the recent decision in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (Group 2), another duel between Koctel du Dain (David Thomain) and Kamehameha (Eric Raffin) is on the cards, with Canada (Theo Duvaldestin), Elton Wise (Alessandro Gocciadoro) and Encierro (Giuseppe Porzio) following close behind.

Festival Trials Day at Cheltenham

Cheltenham, Saturday 28 January: Obstacle racing is currently on shaky ground, but track inspectors gave the green light for today`s Festival Trials Day at Cheltenham.

The card, packed with Group highlights, includes the Clarence House Chase (4th race/14.20pm/100,000 pounds/3371m), in which Energumene (Paul Townend), from the stable of Willie Mullins, should be hard to beat after his recent triumph in the Hilly Way Chase (Group 2). The nine-year-old`s main rival is Edwardstone (Tom Cannon) despite his slip-up in the Desert Orchid Chase (Group 2). Benefiting from the error of King`s previous winner in the Tingle Creek Chase (Group 1) was Editeur du Gite (Niall Houlihan), who had run a creditable third in a previous Handicap Chase. Funambule Sivola (Charlie Deutsch) came in 36 lengths behind Editeur du Gite at Kempton and is also only speculating on a place money today, which also applies to Amarillo Sky (Brendan Powell) and Sizing Pottsie (Tom Scudamore).

Firebreak Stakes at Meydan

Meydan, Friday 27 January: More top-class racing comes from Meydan today, where the Firebreak Stakes (6th race/5.55pm/150,000/$1600m/dirt) takes centre stage. Three weeks ago at the start of the Dubai Racing Carnival, a similar test was decided in the form of the Al Maktoum Challenge, where Discovery Island (Antonio Fresu) stood no chance against the winning Algiers but gave an altogether convincing performance when second to Everfast (Pat Dobbs) and is now due for victory.

A year ago, the Dubawi son ran here in the Lincoln Navigator Handicap and lost to Law Of Peace (Tadgh O`Shea) by a length and a half. Discovery Island`s stablemate went on to win two more trials over grass and moved into the break that has lasted since March. Prince Eiji (Sam Hitchcott) won here on 1 December at List level against Thegreatcollection (Adrie de Vries) and Everfast, among others, and the seven-year-old trained by Doug Watson was also convincing in his fifth place in the Al Maktoum Challenge. Ever Given (Mickael Barzalona) and Mister Saint Paul (Royston Ffrench) ran at a higher level in Europe last year and changed quarters to Salem bin Ghadayer in October. It remains to be seen how the two youngest entrants in the field will do after the break. Imperial Empire (Ray Dawson) has not run so far this season.

Honeysuckle conqueror in the Galmoy Hurdle

Gowran Park, Thursday, 26 January: Seven steeplechase races are on the programme at Gowran Park today. Over hurdles is the Group 2 Galmoy Hurdle (3rd race/15.15/37,500 Euro/4828m), in which six horses will compete.

Teahupoo (Davy Russell) will not be able to avoid being the favourite, as the six-year-old is not only the winner of the Hatton`s Grace Hurdle (Group 1), he also defeated Honeysuckle at Fairyhouse, which was her first defeat after 16 consecutive victories. Longhouse Poet (J. Slevin) has also been successful this season. The Brassil protégé won easily in Limerick after running faultily in Punchestown. Beacon Edge (B. Cooper) acts very inconsistently and has no current recommendation, but the Group 1 winner is one to keep an eye on. The same goes for Summerville Boy (Rachael Blackmore). If the Relkeel Hurdle winner remembers earlier times, he is conceivable far in front. Early Doors (Simon Torrens) and My Design (Kieren Buckley) are dependent on the failure of the Meant.

Smrczek duo in the Prix de la Crau

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Wednesday, 25 January: Eight flat races are on the programme today on the Riviera. In the Prix de la Crau (4th race/13.25 h/26.000 Euro/1300 m) Sascha Smrczek attacks twice.

Zerostress (Marie Velon) has been briefly suspended after his disappointing run in a Quinté handicap. In November, the Areion son took two honours, making him a co-favourite this time. Clever Candy (Ambre Molins) won a €50,000 handicap at Longchamp last year and also ran to a very good fourth place on the Fibersand track at Chantilly. At the same place on 23 December, it was only enough for seventh place behind Amedras (Eddy Hardouin), for whom other smaller placings last year speak. Wonder Boy (Leo Roussel) came in third only six days ago and is on the verge of winning. Blu Metal Jacket (Cristian Demuro) won a yearling handicap easily on the same day. Elusive Foot (Antoni Orani) finished second here a year ago ahead of Marianafoot, a multiple Group winner in France.

Wow and Kiaz Apapa in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Monday, 23 January: The week starts in Cagnes-sur-Mer with seven races. German chances abound, as in the Prix de la Sauge Pourpree (4th race/15.00/15.000 Euro/2000 m), a Grade `3` sales race.

Andreas Suborics will saddle Wow (Eddy Hardouin), who has been running exclusively on sand in recent months and has finished third twice recently. At the Cagnes meeting four years ago he ran several times without any countable success. Marian-Falk Weissmeier will try it with Stable Piccadilly`s Kiaz Apapa (Cristian Demuro), who finished third in Mülheim a year ago, but was beaten on the fibre sand track in Deauville. The two Germans are highly rated by the trade press, but they cannot afford any weaknesses against Manne (Hugo Boutin), who has repeatedly finished fourth. Huntba (Maxime Guyon) should also run better this time than a week ago over Turf, where the Pantall protégé was only third last.

Strongly contested Prix de Cornulier

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 22 January: The most famous and most valuable trotting race in the world takes place today on the Plateau de Gravelle with the Prix de Cornulier (4th race/15.15/700,000 Euro/2700 m). Among the 18 participants there are two who have already exceeded the winning sum limit of one million euros.

Flamme du Goutier (Mathieu Mottier) and Etoile de Bruyere (David Thomain) are the richest in the field and are expected to be far in front. However, the only way to win is through the Duvaldestin mare, who already won the classic last year. A week later, the eight-year-old ran in the Prix d`Amérique and was fully convincing in third place. Flamme du Goutier recently proved how well she performs in front of the sulky in the Prix du Bourgogne (Group 2), where she finished second ahead of Zarenne Fas (Matilde Herleiksplass) and Hanna des Molles (Alexandre Abrivard), among others. The latter clearly won the newly created Prix Bilibili (Group 1) a year ago ahead of Happy and Lucky (Adrien Lamy), who has not competed since and enters the fray without a prep race. Granvillaise Bleue (Camille Levesque) and Etoile de Bruyere completed the trifecta twelve months ago. Both currently ran in the Prix du Calvados (Group 2) and paled in fifth and seventh. As expected, Fantaisie (Francois Lagadeuc) and Fado du Chêne (Paul Philippe Ploquin) won the race and Hirondelle de Rib (Jean Dersoir) and Freeman de Houelle (Benjamin Rochard) were well placed.

Next round in Dortmund

Dortmund, Sunday, 22 January: The sand track in Dortmund will once again determine the gallop action in this country this week, with seven competitions between 11:20 am and 2:20 pm, of which the first four races will also be shown in France.

In the Equalisation III over 1,950 metres, Bavaria Iron (T. Scardino) stands to win after his more than successful comeback seven days ago. The veteran Cafe Royal (S. Vogt) makes his comeback after a break of more than three years.

In a 1,950-metre race, Palatina (C. Santangelo) from the stable of Henk Grewe should be a common tip, as she comes from much trickier assignments.

10,000 Euros will be staked in the four-way bet of the 4th race (Equalisation IV, 1,800 metres). Lommerzheim (T. Scardino) and Amarcord (M. Pecheur) are two potential bank horses.

Jubile Prior the favourite in the Prix de Pardieu

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 21 January: To set the mood for the Prix de Cornulier, the Prix de Pardieu (5th race/15.50/120,000 Euro/2175 m) will be decided today in Vincennes. The Group 2 ride for four-year-old horses should not be taken away by Jubile Prior (Aurelien Desmarres).

The Prince-de-Montfort son, trained by Jean-Michel Bazire, showed one of his best performances in the Prix de Vincennes as second ahead of Jaguar du Goutier (Damien Bonne), Junon (Guillaume Martin) and Jodanne Dieschoot (Anthony Barrier). Hardly worse to classify was his recent victory in the Prix Leon Tacquet (Group 3) also ahead of Junon. Jaguar du Goutier runs equally strong in front of the sulky and under saddle and should not disappoint here. Jamaica Turbo (Benjamin Rochard) makes her debut under saddle after three `red` forms. With winning performances in the Prix Annick Dreux (Group 2) and Prix Reine du Corta (Group 2), she should not be missing from any consideration. The consistent Jasmina Gede (Victor Saussaye) is also in contention for a podium finish.

Epatante ahead of first win of the season

Haydock, Saturday 21 January: Excellent steeplechase racing comes from Haydock today, where the Group 2 Champion Hurdle Trial (4th race/15.05pm/£75,000/3149m) takes centre stage.

Following the early withdrawal of For Pleasure, five horses are still eligible to start. Epatante (Aidan Coleman) is the horse to beat after two honourable defeats each behind Constitution Hill. The €1 million-plus nine-year-old will be tested by I Like to Move It (Sam Twiston-Davies), who is among the narrowest favourites after one winning and one faulty performance each at Cheltenham. Minella Drama (Brian Hughes) won at Musselburgh and recommended himself for better assignments. Nell`s Son (Danny McMenamin), a reliable forward runner, is even more likely to surprise than Jason The Militant (Joe Williamson).

UAE 1000 Guineas + Zabeel Mile at Meydan

Meydan, Friday, 20 January: The third round of the Racing Carnival in Dubai takes place today. First up is the UAE 1000 Guineas (4th race/16.45pm/150,000 $/1600m/Dirt) with a three-strong force from Al Rashid Stables. Two fillies saddled by Doug Watson. Asawer (Pat Dobbs) and Awasef (Sam Hitchcott) made a strong impression in their recent appearance in the UAE 1000 Guineas Trial but were ultimately on the losing end against Mimi Kakushi (Mickael Barzalona). It remains to be seen whether they will reverse their form this time. Unjokable (Ray Dawson) and Nafas (Tadhg O`Shea) were in the picture behind. In the final standings, Here We Are (Royston Ffrench), who was clearly better than Asawer and Mimi Kakushi on December 1, could end up at the front.

The dominance of the hosts is evident in the Zabeel Mile (5th race/17.20/180,000 $/1600 m/Tuf). Five of the eight entrants are provided by Godolphin, with Saeed bin Suroor and Charlie Appleby in charge. The latter may fancy his best chances through Master Of The Seas (William Buick), for whom the season ended far too soon after winning the Earl Of Sefton Stakes (Group 3), and Modern News (James Doyle), who ran strongly in the Sovereign Stakes (Group 3) when finishing second last time. I Am Superman (Colin Keane), who has been staying in Australia for a long time, could steal the show from the Royal Blues. After his Group 1 start in the Neds Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes, the seven-year-old took a break and is now competing under new management.

Jacksun and Mika d`O with chances in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Thursday, 19 December: The meeting on the Riviera continues to gather pace. Michael Figge will saddle Jacksun (Aurelien Lemaitre), who has been very successful in France, in the Prix Robert Villeneuve-Bargemon (4th race/13.25 h/26,000 Euro/2500 m) and is one of the promising contenders for victory.

Things have not been going well for the nine-year-old at the moment, he did not finish higher than ninth in Lyon. Before that, he showed two strong performances in Saint-Cloud, with which he is expected to be far ahead today. The Munich rider will be helped by Stefan Richter, who wants to get Mika d`O (Alexis Pouchin) back on track after his recent strike result. A year ago, the Martinborough son ran three times here and returned to the stable with two placings in Quinté handicaps. The priority is to beat the immensely reliable Olympie (Christophe Soumillon), who always runs in the trifecta. In her defeat in Toulouse, Homo Deus (Anthony Crastus) was half a length better, but has more weight to carry this time. Pouvoir Royal (Cristian Demuro) was pleasing in third, confirming the win over Halimi (Antonio Orani) that came before.

Three-year-olds in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Wednesday, 18 June: The Riviera Meeting starts into the next round today, with the three-year-olds in focus. For the opening race in the Prix Louis Gautier Vignal (1st race/12.00/26,000 Euro/2000 m/Class 2), the Jean-Claude Rouget-trained Mojo Ego (Cristian Demuro) could start the season victoriously. The stallion, who finished fifth in the Prix de Condé (Group 3), is tested by Bay d`Argent (Antonio Orani) and Limesy (Anthony Crastus), for whom Jerome Reynier is responsible. Both two-year-olds won their last performances and left impressions for better tasks. Aversa (Ioritz Mendizabal) and Rosel (Maxime Guyon) are two other talented contenders who could be in line for a top placing.



In the following Prix des Iles du Frioul (2nd race/12.30/23,000 Euro/1500 m) three-year-old stallions/geldings are addressed. All eight participants are annual debutants and still winless. Nolito (Maxime Guyon) already showed beginnings and cannot be omitted. The same applies to Aquilon (Cristian Demuro), Torneo (Coralie Pacaut) and Rising Up (Marvin Grandin), who have placed so far and should not be missing from any consideration.

Kilimanjaro in the Prix de Brionne

Paris-Vincennes, Tuesday, 17 January: The best class will be addressed at Vincennes today at the beginning in the Prix de Brionne (1st race/13.50/51,000 Euro/2700 m). The `Course Europeenne` is a yearling comparison between six- and nine-year-old horses that have not exceeded a winning sum of 175,000 euros.



Kilimanjaro (Robin Bakker), trained by Paul Hagoort, is one of the most promising candidates for victory. He currently won a better race in Wolvega as an outsider. Last year he ran in Munich, among other places, where he finished fourth in the Bayern-Pokal. Better rated is M.T. Oscar (Adrien Lamy), who finished a very good fifth here in the Prix du Perreux (Group 3) ahead of Harmoniously (Eric Raffin), but did not come around the course smoothly in his last appearance in a `D` race. Huylsse Digeo (Jean-William Hallais) started the year victoriously and should again play a leading role. Mateo de Rêve (Jean-Michel Bazire) runs equally strong in front of the sulky and under saddle. He could make a lot of money as well as Devs Definitif (Franck Nivard), who was excellent ten days ago at a higher level in fifth place.

Start of the Cagnes Meeting

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Monday, 16 January: At the Hippodrome Côte d`Azur in Cagnes-sur-Mer, the flat meeting begins today and continues until 27 February. Among the German guests are Sascha Smrczek and Michael Figge, who have two chances in the Prix de Seranon (6th race/15.50 h/26,000 Euro/1600 m).

The former will saddle Inaugural (Sylvain Ruis), who won in Mülheim a year ago and before that in Dresden and Cologne. The Munich coach will try Saphira Dream (Ambre Molins), who gave the sixth-placed Smrczek protégé a clear rebuff in her most recent triumph at the December event in Baden-Baden. Back then, the weight difference was nine pounds, this time it is still one kilo thanks to the permit rider. In the favour of the betting public will probably be Hooking (Aurelien Lemaitre), who underlined his continuing good form with an easy victory in Deauville last time. He carries maximum weight as does Anthorus (Maxime Guyon), placed twice at Listed level in late summer, and We Ride The World (Anthony Crastus), for whom the year ended in July after a strong start to the season. Dar Toungi (Tony Piccone) earned a dead heat for second place on the sand track at Chantilly. The Reynier representative is just as first choice as Mon Bel Canto (Cristian Demuro), who runs reliably to the front and currently finished fourth in Pau.

With the Dortmund sand track into the season `23

Dortmund, Sunday, 15 January 2022: There have been no gallop races in Germany since New Year`s Eve, but this Sunday the 2023 season begins, with a sand track racing day in Dortmund. Between 11:15 am and 2:15 pm, the specialists for this surface will compete. The first four of the total of seven competitions are also part of the PMU programme in France.

The focus is on a 1,800-metre equaliser III. Gedöns (M. Seidl) can be expected to be successful again. Aradous (St. Koyuncu) is an absolute form horse and will again travel from Krefeld with first chances. Bavaria Iron (T. Scardino) excelled here last winter. Delia (M. Pecheur) and Asaaleeb (S. Vogt) should not be written off.

10,000 Euros will be paid out in the four-horse race of the 4th race (Equalisation IV, 1,950 m). Khaleesi (S. Vogt) ran like a soon-to-be winner and could now be in front with his favourite rider.

Last `Amérique` test with (almost) all stars

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 15 January: The last test run for the Prix d`Amérique in a fortnight takes place today in Vincennes. 18 horses line up in the Prix de Belgique (4th race/15.15/120,000 Euro/2850 m) and most of them will be seen again the Sunday after next.

Hooker Berry (Jean-Michel Bazire) made his presence felt in the Prix du Bourbonnais (Group 2), defeating Hussard du Landret (Benoit Robin), who, like the Bazire protégé, played no part over the short distance in the Prix de Bourgogne (Group 2). Delia du Pommereux (Pierre-Yves Verva) won the match easily and in a new best time ahead of Decoloration (Gabriele Gelormini), among others, who finished fourth in the `Bourbonnais` ahead of the ten-year-old. Behind her came Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon), whose triumph in the Prix de Belgique (Group 2) over Italiano Vero (David Thomain) is still well remembered. In his most recent appearance in the Prix Tenor de Baune (Group 1), the five-year-old was sixth in the picture and not far off Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc) for a better premium, but didn`t stand a chance against the winning Horsy Dream (Eric Raffin) and Beads (Yoann Lebourgeois), who was the giant outsider with the best performance in the meeting. In that match, Calgary Games (Björn Goop) jumped all chances in the closing stages. The Swedish Derby winner could now make up for lost time. Bleff Dipa (Alexandre Abrivard) emerged victorious against Hohneck in the Prix Doynel de Saint-Quentin (Group 2).

The following horses have qualified for the Prix d`Amérique so far:

Hip Hop Haufor, Italiano Vero, Ampia Mede SM (Prix de Bretagne).
Hooker Berry, Hussard du Landret, Etonnant (Prix du Bourbonnais)
Délia du Pommereux, Flamme du Goutier (Prix de Bourgogne)
Idao de Tillard (Critérium Continental)
Horsy Dream (Prix Ténor de Baune)

Surpuissance de Godolphin à Al Rashidiya

Meydan, vendredi 13 janvier : Le Dubai Racing Carnival entame aujourd`hui son deuxième tour. Dans l`épreuve principale, Al Rashidiya (5e course/17h20/180.000 $/1800 m/Turf), les hôtes sont une fois de plus en surnombre. Quatre des onze participants courent pour Godolphin et sont sellés par Charlie Appleby et Saeed bin Suroor.



Le favori est Ottoman Fleet (William Buick), vainqueur des James Seymour Stakes (courses de liste) et deuxième des Masar Darley Stakes (groupe 3) à Newmarket. Dubai Future (Daniel Tudhope) est considéré comme à peine plus faible. Ce cheval de sept ans a récemment remporté le Bahrain Trophy (groupe 3), laissant son compagnon d`entraînement Passion And Glory (Pat Cosgrave) à une petite longueur derrière lui. Le quatuor Godolphin est complété par Valiant Prince (James Doyle), dont la dernière apparition victorieuse dans les Ganton Stakes (courses de liste) à York remonte à plus de six mois. Zagrey (Christophe Soumillon), qui a remporté son plus beau succès dans le Grand Prix du Nord à Chantilly, pourrait bien mettre des bâtons dans les roues de ses hôtes. San Donato (Pat Dobbs) a fait le plein de condition physique à Abu Dhabi. Il a remporté une course de liste et a permis à son nouvel entraîneur Doug Watson de faire ses débuts avec succès. Au même endroit, Ursa Minor (Ray Dawson) s`en est tirée honorablement avec une quatrième place.

Prix de la Côte d`Azur in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Thursday, 12 January: One of the highlights of the trotting meeting on the Riviera every year is the Prix de la Côte d`Azur (1st race/13.50 h/120,000 Euro/2900 m). The Group 3 race demands an allowance of 25 metres each from participants with winnings of 305,000 euros and 655,000 euros or more.

From the basic mark, Bordeaux S. (Christophe Martens) registers first chances, for whom Jean-Michel Bazire is responsible. The trainer himself steered him to a very good place of honour at Vincennes last time, where he scored an easy win before that. Desir de Bannes (Nicolas Ensch) is hardly rated worse, although his forms are anything but trustworthy. The track specialist was served only a build-up start in the Grand Prix de Noel (Group 3) recently. Ahead of him, Ecureuil Jenilou (Gwenn Junod) and Eden Basque (Pierre Vercruysse) finished in the placings, but are worse off in the allowance band this time. Go On Boy (Romain Derieux) starts from the middle allowance band. No distance is too far for him and with the performance in the Critérium des 5 Ans (Group 1) in fourth place, he can beat them all. Alessandro Gocciadoro`s two protégés, Zaccaria Bar (Gabriele Gelormini) and Bengurion Jet would not be a surprise in the front but have to go far. Another Italian hope is Birba Caf (Enrico Bellei), who finished fourth in her last French start in the Prix de Provence (Group 3). Flamme Vive (David Bekaert) rehearsed successfully for today`s task.

Obstacle races in Pau

Pau, Wednesday, 11 January: Eight steeplechase races are on the programme in Pau today. The Prix Jean-Paul Hugonnet (4th race/15.05/42.000 Euro/3900 m), in which four-year-old horses are addressed, leads over the hunter jumps.

Among the eight participants, Athena du Luy (Nathalie Desoutter) is the only mare in the field. Trained by Francois Nicolle, the four-year-old usually ran reliably to the front over both the chase and hurdle jumps last year, but of all things fluffed in her most recent appearance in a high-paying handicap as co-favourite. In the same fixture, Best Path (James Reveley) was reasonably in the picture when fifth and subsequently won his first race here. Just Milieu (Johnny Charron) and Il Diavolo (Felix de Giles) were together under order on 18 December, but only the former could meet the high expectations when second. The Cottin protégé ran before that in Clairefontaine and scored a second place. Joli Look (Wilfried Lajon) is a model of reliability and must not be missed in any bet. Beau Gaulois (Angelo Zuliani) showed a good approach in Craon.

Stefan Richter with two chances at the end

Marseille-Vivaux, Tuesday, 11 January: Eight races will be held in Marseille-Vivaux today. At the end in the Prix Michel Fructus (8th race/20.15 pm/15.000 Euro/2000 m, a test of the category `Classe 3`, Stefan Richter saddles two horses.

Forbidden Secret (Eddy Hardouin) and Muelheimer Perle (Valentin Seguy) already met at their last appearance in Chantilly. Not far apart, they finished third and sixth and were barely more than a length behind the winner. Forbidden Secret celebrated his last victory at the same venue in October. A good performance from the Germans is expected, but Padron (Antonio Orani), who was fifth last time out on this course, can count on winning just as much as the track winner Denia (Tony Piccone) and the reliable Cleod`Or (Sylvain Ruis). By The Way (Cheyenne Banz) will be interesting with weight allowance. Mona Lisa (Franck Foresi), on the other hand, has little to offer.

Strong mares in the Prix de l`Aveyron

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 9 January: After an eventful weekend in Vincennes, things continue seamlessly today. Eight races are on the programme. Among the better tests is the Prix de l`Aveyron (5th race/16.10pm/57,000 euros/2850m), a yearling comparison between seven- and eight-year-old fillies, who have to pay an allowance if they win 153,000 euros or more.

From the basic brand, Galante Haufor (Charles Julien Bigeon) should play a supporting role if she comes around the course smoothly. She currently `flops` twice in a row, but won in strong fashion against similar competition on 7 November. Fulmida (Eric Raffin), who was very pleasing in December with a place of honour, also appears unsteady and strong. Fashion Touch (Francois Lagadeuc) has to compete with a handicap, but form and class speak in favour of the eight-year-old, who recently easily put away an allowance in Pontchâteau. Great Tigress (Benoit Robin) was third in a `C` race a year ago, better than Gaia d`Occagnes (Leo Abrivard) and Grande de Ranchy (Matthieu Abrivard), who all start from the second band. Galie de Celiniere (Alexandre Abrivard) should no longer be underestimated after her surprising second place here in a `D` race.

Grand Prix de la Ville de Nice in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Sunday 8 January: After three Listed races, the Group 3 Grand Prix de la Ville de Nice (6th race/14.50/154,000 Euros/4600m) will be held today in Cagnes-sur-Mer. The Steeple-Chase gathers twelve participants at the start. At the dress rehearsal here in the Prix Jean Gailly de Taurines (Classe 1), Garkapstar (Adrien Merienne) gave the higher rated Sans Bruit (Kevin Nabet) a clear rebuff. This time a reversal of form seems possible as the weights have shifted in favour of the underdog. The same picture is emerging between Le Mans (Nicolas Gauffenic) and Jimble Moon (Felix de Giles), who ran in a quinté handicap on 12 December. The latter won with a ten-pound lighter tag ahead of the Windrif protégé, who was down a pound today. Suroit (Josef Bartos) started the new year victoriously and must not be missed in any consideration, which also applies to Iceo Madrik (Dylan Ubeda), who surprised when third in last year`s Prix Ferdinand Dufaure (Group 1).

`Cornulier` dress rehearsal in Prix du Calvados

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday 8 January: A qualifier for the Prix de Cornulier takes place today with the Prix du Calvados (6th race/16.25/150,000 Euro/2850m). After a series of string results and fifth place in the Prix Jean Dumouch (Group 3), Fado du Chêne (Paul Philippe Ploquin) is competing again in his favourite discipline, although the eight-year-old does not always perform reliably here either. Nevertheless, he is highly rated. His priority to beat is Fantaisie (Francois Lagadeuc), who last landed at the `Tower` after four impressive wins in a row in the Prix Paul Buquet (Group 2). Hirondelle du Rib (Jean Dersoir) runs differently but has the class to beat them all. Good Girl Marceaux (Pierre Vercruysse) pleases with her winning streak, but with an 800,000 euro difference to Etoile de Bruyere (Adrien Lamy), who is not to be underestimated, the seven-year-old has yet to break in confidence.

Aimed at three-year-old fillies, the Prix Gelinotte (5th race/15.50/120. 000 Euro/2175 m), which will see another duel between Kalamity d`Heripre (Franck Nivard) and Kalie Glycines (Yoann Lebourgeois), who fought for victory in the Prix Une de Mai (Group 2), leaving the higher rated Kana de Beylev (Eric Raffin) and Kabaka de Guez (Jean-Michel Bazire) and the very disappointing Katchina de Simm (David Thomain) behind.

In the four-year-old Prix Charles Tiercelin (8th race/17.35/120,000 Euro/2700 m), everything speaks for Just A Gigolo (Franck Nivard), who, however, has been on the brink of defeat several times. In his recent win in the Prix Ready Cash (Group 1), he had to fight to the line to stay in contention against the pushy Juliet Papa Bravo (Clement Duvaldestin) and Jack Tonic (Theo Duvaldestin). Juninho Dry (Paul Philippe Ploquin) challenged the Allaire protégé in the Prix Guy Deloison (Group 2) and was narrowly beaten in the end.

Three-year-olds in the Prix Maurice de Gheest

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 7 January: The 2019 vintage is coming more and more to the fore. Today, the Prix Maurice de Gheest (6th race/16.25/120,000 Euro/2175 m) is on the schedule. Without exception, three-year-old stallions are addressed. Judging by the result in the Prix Emmanuel Margouty (Group 2), the path to victory leads via Kamehameha (Eric Raffin), who had a clear advantage over Koctel du Dain (David Thomain) on 17 December and thus wrapped up his fourth victory at his eighth lifetime start. The underdog had previously celebrated a commanding success in the Prix des Dhalias (Course B). Eminem Font (Marco Stefani) has so far shown his ability in Sweden and Italy, where he finished second in the Gran Premio Allevatori Mipaaf and the Swedish Breeders Crown respectively. Canada (Theo Duvaldestin) is declining in form, but has already shown remarkable things. Karlito (Jean-Michel Bazire) recently recommended himself for better tasks with a third place in `Course A`. Ernesto Roc (Filippo Rocca) should be paid attention to on his French debut.

Listed race in Pau

Pau, Saturday, 7 January: The steeplechase season at the Hippodrome in Pau is in full swing. One of the highlights is on the programme today with the Prix Bernard de Dufau (3rd race/13.00 h/66,000 Euro/4700 m). The Listed race leads over the hunter jumps and sees some participants again who were under order here on 18 December in the Prix Château de Pau (Classe 1). The match was easily secured by Youtwo Glass (James Reveley) against Spanish One (Geoffrey Re), who again finished clear ahead of Metasequoia (Lucas Zuliani) in third. La Danza (Clement Lefebvre), who recently surprised with her second place in the Prix Andre Michel (Group 3) over hurdles, could join the new three-way battle. She also took silver in the Prix des Drags (Group 2), was beaten for the win late on. Doctor Squeeze (Theo Chevillard) continued his streak of third places in the Prix Georges Cortois (Group 2) seamlessly and is aiming for a similar result again. Gardon`s Le Sourire (Alain de Chitray) rarely disappoints and is in contention for a top finish ahead of Hades (Pierre-Alfred Grondin).

Kick-off of the Dubai Racing Carnival

Meydan, Friday, 6 January: The Dubai Racing Carnival begins today at the racecourse in Meydan and will continue until March.

The first highlight is the Dubawi Stakes (3rd race/16.10 h/150,000 $/1200 m/Dirt), which belongs to Group 3 and is run over sand. Switzerland (Tadhg O`Shea), last victorious on World Cup day in the Dubai Golden Shaheen (Group 1), is seen well in front but has two serious opponents ahead of him in the form of Mouheeb (Jean Van Overmeire), who showed up here a few weeks ago, and the underperforming Tuz (Richard Mullen). Mubakker (Dane O`Neill) is considered a track specialist and should not be missed in any consideration.

The first round to the Al Maktoum Challenge (5th race/17.20pm/250,000 $/1600m/turf) favours Prince Eiji (Sam Hitchcott). He was a commanding winner over Danyah (Dane O`Neill) at Listed level on his last appearance on 1 December and recommended himself for bigger assignments. Desert Wisdom (Adrie de Vries) is still well remembered as runner-up in the Godolphin Mile (Group 2). Prior to that, he won the Burj Nahaar (Group 3) against horses under order in the Dubawi Stakes. Algiers (James Doyle) most recently impressed when second in the Churchill Stakes (Listed race) at Lingfield. Doscovery Island (Antonio Fresu) delivered only good performances last season, should not disappoint after the break.

In the Al Fahidi Fort (6th race/5.55pm/180,000 $/1400m), the hosts` dominance is felt through Noble Truth (William Buick) and Al Suhail (James Doyle). The former was last victorious in the Jersey Stakes (Group 3). His stablemate placed behind the eventual Group 1 winner Kinross in the Park Stakes (Group 2), among others. Alfareeq (Dane O`Neill) was second in a List race in Abu Dhabi. Fast Raaj (Maxime Guyon) currently won a Black Type race in Deauville.

Wöhler with Bukhara in Lyon

Lyon-La Soie, Thursday, 5 January: An eight-race event will take place today at the Hippodrome in Lyon-La Soi. For the opening race in the Prix de Craponne (1st race/16.27 h/13,000 Euro/2400 m), Bukhara (Corentin Berge), trained by Andreas Wöhler, will compete against eight rivals in the Maiden class.

He was seen last year in the German Derby in Hamburg, where he played no part and finished last. Before that, in the Derby Trial, he was at least good enough for third place. Currently, the Isfahan son ran over sand in Chantilly and finished second. Today`s task looks solvable, but he must not allow himself any weakness against Toronet (Anthony Crastus), who has competed over hurdles so far. The third-placed Fête Joyeuse (Valentin Seguy) is also a final contender. The other participants have not attracted much attention so far and can only be considered for a surprise.

Strong four-year-olds in the Prix de Croissanville

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, 4 January: The best trotting sport comes again today from Vincennes, where the Prix de Croissanville (5th race/16.15 h/61,000 Euro/2700 m) attracts four-year-old stallions. Just You And Me (Gabriele Gelormini) won five of his seven starts last year, adding considerably to his winning tally with a triumph in the Prix d`Antibes (Course A).

Since then, the stallion has not competed again and it remains to be seen how he will perform after a break of more than four months. Jazzy Dancer (Anthony Barrier) did not play a role in two higher-paying Group 2 tests, but was very pleasing in the Prix Arethusa (Course A). In the Prix Arethusa (Course A), he finished third ahead of Jack Quick (Florian Desmigneux), Jean Balthazar (Alexandre Abrivard), Joyeux Mesloir (Pierre Belloche) and Jalimede (Mathieu Mottier), who later came within a hair`s breadth of winning the Prix Hermantaria (Course A), leaving Jasmin Precieux (Alexis Collette) and Joli Cheri (Francois Lagadeuc) just as close behind. Jonas (Franck Nivard) should be noted with the winning performance from Enghien in August over Jazz Jenilou (Adrien Lamy).

Kick-off with the Prix de Poitiers

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, 3 January: Eight races will be decided today in Vincennes from 13.50. Among the best races is the introductory Prix de Poitiers (1st race/13.50 h/75,000 Euro/2700 m), a `Course B` test with older horses in the prize category up to 365,000 Euro.

Equipped with first chances is Falco d`Havaroche (Gabriele Gelormini), for whom Jean-Michel Baudouin is responsible. The seven-year-old won a similar match here in November against, among others, the third-placed Flower By Magalou (Anthony Barrier), who later turned the tables on Falco d`Havaroche in a leg to the Grand National du Trot (Group 3) to finish second. Flaya Kalouma (Gabriel Angel Pou Pou) also belongs to the narrowest circle of favourites. Worth mentioning are her two places of honour in the Prix Isara (Course A) and in the Prix de Cosse-le-Vivier (Course C). Fee de Ranchval (Matthieu Abrivard) will have a large following as winner of the Prix de Sille-le-Guillaume (Course C) over Flower Ball (Jean-Michel Bazire), Espoir d`Elphigny (Arnaud Desmottes) and Erolina (Christophe Martens).

`Class 2` in Newcastle

Newcastle, Monday 2 January: The event at Newcastle`s all-weather track comes into focus today. The `Class 2` Sunderland Handicap (4th race/5.10pm/25,200 pounds/1420m) appeals to six horses. The Harry and Roger Chalton-trained Noisy Night (Hollie Doyle) goes into the race as favourite. He finished a very creditable second on his last start at this course after being off for over a year. In his first year he won three races in a row on the sandy course at Kempton. Early chances will also be given to Larado (Theodore Ladd), who battled Zip (Mark Winn) to victory here on December 2, with an advantage of three-quarters of a length. Lord Of The Lodge (Pierre-Louis Jamin) is another dirt specialist who finished a good third at Wolverhampton recently. Air To Air (Kevin Stott) performed well in the summer and should be in the mix here too. The £350,000-plus Raising Sand (Saffie Osborne) has little to offer at present.

Open `Amérique` qualifier

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 1 January: To kick off the year, the Prix de Bourgogne (4th race/15.15/120,000 Euro/2100m) is the third `Amérique` qualifier on the programme at Vincennes. Nine of the 18 participants last competed in the Prix du Bourgogne (Group 2).

Hooker Berry (Nicolas Bazire) won amazingly easy against Hussard du Landret (Benoit Robin), who had already fought for the victory in the Prix de Belgique (Group 2) before, but was subsequently taken out of the classification. Etonnant (Anthony Barrier) also did well, leaving Decoloration (Gabriele Gelormini) and Delia du Pommereux (Pierre-Yves Verva) just behind. The trade press sees Heraut d`Armes (Jean-Michel Bazire) far ahead. The five-year-old recently jumped in front in the Prix Tenor de Baune (Group 1) at the beginning of the home straight. In the same competition, Beads (Yoann Lebourgeois) surprised in third place. Cokstile (Vincenzo Piscuoglio Dell`Annunziata) crowned his final season with victory in the Yonkers International Trot (Group 1), in which Etonnant finished unplaced. Zarenne Fas (Eric Raffin) ran under saddle and repeatedly announced himself as second. Bleff Dipa (Alexandre Abrivard) will have a large following as the surprise winner of the Prix Doynel de Saint-Quentin (Group 2) over Heraut d`Armes, Hokkaido Jiel and Hanna des Molles (Laurent-Claude Abrivard), among others. Ampia Mede Sm (Franck Nivard) was at least better than Flamme du Goutier (Theo Duvaldestin) and Hooker Berry in the first `Amérique` qualifier.

New Year`s Day at Cheltenham

Cheltenham, Sunday, 1 January: Seven top-class steeplechase races will be decided today on New Year`s Day at Cheltenham. The highlight is the Group 2 Relkeel Hurdle (5th race/15.30pm/70,000 pounds/4070m).

Marie`s Rock (Nico de Boinville) ended her last season with three victories. The last one was in the Mares Champion Hurdle (Group 1) over Stormy Ireland, who showed up last year. To beat the eight-year-old has priority I Like To Move It (Sam Twiston-Davies), who was slightly ahead in a Handicap Hurdle here on November 13. First Street (James Bowen) and Knappers Hill (Harry Cobden) are two other contenders for victory who made a big impression when winning at Newbury and Wincanton respectively recently. Dashel Drasher (Rex Dingle) was second in the Many Clouds Chase (Group 2) and Botox Has (Jamie Moore) triumphant at Haydock.