Body N Soul on the trot

Paris-Vincennes, Tuesday, 28 March: Eight races are on the programme today at the end of the month at Vincennes. In the Prix de Nort-sur-Erdre (4th race/15.35 h/39,000 Euro/2700 m), a `Course Europeenne` for five- and six-year-old saddle trotters, Body N Soul (Francois Lagadeuc), trained by Mike Lenders for German owners, will compete against eleven opponents.

At the end of last season, the Maharajah son won two trotting races in Sweden and at the season debut in Solvalla he finished fourth in front of the sulky. The six-year-old faces plenty of form horses such as Igor du Parc (Adrien Lamy), Ivindo du Bocage (Anthony Barrier), Imperial Coglais (Alexis Collette) and Huis Clos (Camille Levesque), who were each victorious in their most recent outings. Mister Invictus (Mathieu Mottier), who is competing under saddle for the first time, is being considered for the very front. In the current meeting, the Duvaldestin protégé met with too much difficulty in both the Prix Octave Douesnel and the Prix de Crois (both Group 2), but today`s task seems solvable. Instinctif (Damien Bonne) and Igo Clea (Guillaume Martin), who are in good form, are also possible front-runners.

Stefan Richter still eager to attack

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Monday, 27 February: Once again the pits open at the flat meeting in Cagnes-sur-Mer, where Stefan Richter attacks with further chances one day after Mika d`O`s success in the Grand Prix de Department 06. In the Prix du Col du Clapier (5th race/16.05 h/18.000 Euro/1600 m) the successful coach is represented three times.

Forbidden Secret (Marie Velon) knew how to convince in second place on 15 February, setting the two previous strike results right. Electroscope (Cristian Demuro) did much less with four attempts. A fifth place was the best result for the five-year-old, who finished a good third here last year. Flamingo Hollow (Alexis Pouchin) collected three smaller placings. In the Prix de la Napoule (Classe 3), the gelding was close to the second placed Itman (Fabrice Veron). Indyco (Maxime Guyon) celebrated two wins in the current meeting, but did not finish beyond the midfield after a third place in the Prix Saonois (Listed race). Despite his maximum weight, he is just as much a favourite as Sluzewiec (Coralie Pacaut), who probably still felt the break a fortnight ago when he finished sixth behind Indyco.

Wöhler and Richter in the Grand Prix

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Sunday, 26 February: The flat meeting in Cagnes-sur-Mer is almost over. Before the curtain finally falls tomorrow, the Grand Prix du Department (8th race/15.37 h/70,000 Euro/2500 m) will be the big final firework. German chances are not missing in this Listed race, which gathers eleven participants at the start.

Andreas Wöhler will be competing with Bukhara (Corentin Berge), who currently won in Lyon, and Stefan Richter will be riding Mika d`O (Alexis Pouchin), who is well established here. The latter took a very good place of honour at the dress rehearsal behind Belgian Prince (Marvin Grandin) and in front of Laos (Anthony Crastus). In his appearance on 19 January, he lost as a big outsider only to Pouvoir Royal (Cristian Demuro), who is considered the favourite. Always Welcome (Maxime Guyon) also did splendidly in third place, only Olympie (Tony Piccone) disappointed all along the line after a series of strong placings. Nevertheless, the mare should not be underestimated, just like Chichen Itza (Jerome Cabre) and Aude (Aurelien Lemaitre), who have good forms.

New Duel Between Hooker Berry And Ampia Mede Sm

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 26 February: The Prix de Paris (4th race/15.15/400,000 Euro/4150 m) will take place over the marathon distance today and, after the Prix d`Amérique and the Prix de France, there will be another duel between Hooker Berry (Jean-Michel Bazire) and Ampia Mede Sm (Franck Nivard).

The cards will be reshuffled and neither the stallion nor the mare are certain final contenders. The Bazire protégé had nothing to do with the closer decision recently and only stayed ahead of Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon), who is well placed to be the winner this time and via the preferred route. Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc) runs reliably into the honoured ranks, which the six-year-old should do again. In the `France` he finished only one length behind Amia Mede Sm. Hussard du Landret (Benoit Robin) should not be judged by his last performances. He should enjoy the long way just as much as Hokkaido Jiel (David Thomain), who took two wins in smaller tasks this year. Flamme du Goutier (Theo Duvaldestin) was unlucky in the `Amérique`. Judging by her victory in the Prix de Cornulier, she is expected to finish in the front. Honey Mearas (Björn Goop) has shown little in the winter meeting so far, but one should not completely write off the Swedish crack.

Strong Gosden duo in the Winter Derby

Lingfield, Saturday 25 February: The Winter Derby (4th race/15.05pm/100,000 pounds/2012m) will be decided on the Polytrack at Lingfield today. In the first English Group race of the season John and Thady Gosden are well placed with Lord North (Robert Havlin) and Forest of Dean (Collen Storey).

The two already met last year, but did not finish higher than second and fifth behind the German-bred Alenquer. Lord North won the Dubai Turf (Group 1) at Meydan shortly afterwards. His training companion, winner of the 2021 Winter Derby, took a longer break. He won a qualifier for the All-Weather Championships in January. Tyrrhenian Sea (David Egan) finished very well in the Dirt Championship in April, Harrovian (Kieran O`Neill) pleased in Newcastle behind Forest Of Dean and ahead of King Of The South (Jamie Spencer). Foxes Tales (Rob Hornby), hardly tested on sand, enters from the break. Lucander (Andrea Atzeni) ran only a week ago in Bahrain, where he pinned a Group 2 race to his banner over grass.

Start of the new season in Auteuil

Auteuil, Saturday, 25 February: The obstacle stronghold in Auteuil opens the gates to the new season today. The highlight is the Prix Robert de Clermont-Tonnerre (6th race/16.25 h/150,000 Euro/4400 m).

Eleven horses will compete in the Group 3 chasing race and Poly Grandchamp (Bertrand Lestrade), the longest-serving horse, who won the race three years ago and attracted attention last year mainly with placings, will be among them. Most recently, the eleven-year-old finished third in the Prix la Haye Jousselin (Group 1) behind Grandeur Nature (David Gallon), who has another honourable mention in the Grand Steeple-Chase de Compiegne (Group 2). Happy Monarch (Charlotte Prichard) deserves a mention as last year`s winner over Bandero (Theo Chevillard), among others. In the Prix Murat (Group 2) the Nicolle protégé was clearly better than Poly Grandchamp. Metasequoia (Kevin Nabet) currently cut a strong figure in the Grand Prix de Pau (Group 3) as second. Eddy de Balme (Tristan Lemagnen) fought for victory in the Prix Georges Courtois (Group 2) a year ago, with Doctor Squeeze (Clement Lefebvre) and Le Lude (Felix de Giles) far behind.

Godolphin dominance in the Balanchine

Meydan, Friday, February 24: The best race on today`s seven-race card at Meydan is the Group 2-rated Balanchine (5th race/5.20pm/180,000/$1800m/turf). For the past five years Godolphin has provided the winner and there is no doubt of a continuation of the streak this time around with Charlie Appleby saddling With The Moonlight (William Buick) and Tranquil Lady (James Doyle) the favourites.

The former won the Cape Verdi (Group 2) here three weeks ago and presented herself in excellent form after a break of almost six months. The comeback of Tranquil Lady, who changed owners and trainers after her triumph in the Prix de Flore (Group 3), should be similarly strong and will get her first taste of desert air today. Ascot Brass (Pat Cosgrave), Kenella (Mickael Barzalona) and In Time (Antonio Fresu), who didn`t stand a chance against With The Moonlight in the Cape Verdi but put in a decent performance overall, are the main contenders for the place money.

Gordon Elliott makes Group 3 Hurdle favourite

Thurles, Thursday 23 February: Seven steeplechase races are on the programme at Thurles today. The Michael Purcell Memorial Novice Hurdle (4th race/16.40pm/30,000 Euro/4023m) marks the highlight.

Trainer Gordon Elliott won the Group 3 hurdle race in the last two years and another success could be added by Sa Fureur (Jordan Gainford), who currently made a splash with two wins at Punchestown. He will have to be wary of Ifiwerearichman (Sean O`Keeffe), who could continue his upward trend with a second-place finish at Navan. Rexem (Simon Torrens) has not attracted much attention this season, but has shown some good signs in the summer. Still Ciel (Rachael Blackmore) won a Maiden race here, but she finished in the beaten field on her most recent start just over a fortnight ago. Whiskey Lullaby (Darragh O`Keeffe) enters under new management and remains to be considered as well as Buddy One (Jack Gilligan), Henning (Daniel King) and Knockanard Lad (Jack Doyle), who stood out with good performances.

Richter double to close

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Wednesday, 22 February: At the end of today`s eight-race event in Cagnes-sur-Mer, the `Classe-3` Handicap Prix de Dieppe (8th race/17.25/25,000 Euro/1500 m) will be decided with German participation.

Stefan Richter will saddle Best Sixteen (Marie Velon) and Electroscope (Valentin Seguy), who hardly managed anything worth counting in two and three appearances here respectively. Starfix (Clement Lecoeuvre), trained by Marian-Falk Weissmeier, also came away empty-handed in his only start of the season so far, but finished well ahead of Best Sixteen. Better chances can be expected for Scarface (Sylvain Ruis), Manarola (Marvin Grandin) and Autumn Twilight (Maxime Guyon), who put up a tough fight for victory in a similar match on 12 February. Morsan (Eddy Hardouin) finished just a length back in seventh in that race. On the same day, Carlton Choice (Hugo Boutin) took the honours in the sales class, before which the nine-year-old pleased in a quinté handicap just behind third-placed Scarface and ahead of Electroscope.

Four-year-old Monté-Cracks in the Prix d`Avenches

Paris-Vincennes, Tuesday, February 21: The Prix d`Avenches (6th race/16.45 p.m./70,000 euros/2175 m), which belongs to Group 3, is aimed at four-year-old saddle trotters in the prize category up to 145,000 euros today on the Plateau de Gravelle. A similar match was decided here on February 4 with the Prix de Dozule (Group 3). Jewel de Banville (Paul Philippe Ploquin) held the reins firmly at the head of the pack and won superiorly ahead of Jazz In Montreux (Nathalie Henry), Jupiter de Play (Francois Lagadeuc) and Justice d`Eole (Antoine Dabouis), among others, who were unable to trouble the winner despite a good performance. Jazz de Pervenche (Alexandre Abrivard) did not come around the course smoothly and was also faulty before that in the Prix Leon Tacquet (Group 3). In her favor is the sovereign triumph in the Prix de Bellerive (Course A) over Jupiter de Play, who had a tough fight for the win with Jazz in Montreux on December 31, losing by a narrow margin but staying clear ahead of Jeroboam d`Erable (David Thomain). Junon (Guillaume Martin) saw completely different opponents in the winter meeting. With the strong performance in the Prix de Pardieu (Group 2) as third in front of higher rated horses, he is conceivable as a winner here at any time.

Cleo d`Argent with chances of winning

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Monday, 20 February: The flat meeting on the Riviera is slowly coming to an end. Today there are eight races on the programme. The Prix de Porquerolles (3rd race/12.50 h/26,000 Euro/2150 m) has an interesting line-up. Six three-year-old horses are competing in the `Classe 2` test and half of them are saddled by Jean-Claude Rouget, who is also the favourite with the recently victorious Valsad (Cristian Demuro), Lodovico (Enzo Crublet) and Iznik (Coralie Pacaut). Perhaps Back To Black (Maxime Guyon) could steal the show from him. The Vermeulen protégé won here in strong style on 30 January.

Two German chances can be identified in the Prix de Bormes-les-Mimosas (5th race/14.07 h/16,000 Euro/2400 m). Stefan Richter and Cleo d`Argent (Cristian Demuro), who ran well here twice, can expect a place in the front group. Marian-Falk Weissmeier`s Philippe`s Grey (Thomas Trullier) was second in Pornichet-La Baule and also seems to have good chances. Momo Nelson (Antonio Orani) and Eternal Optimist (Benjamin Marie), who finished ahead of Cleo d`Argent on 2 February, are favoured by the trade press.

Dortmund from 11.15 a.m.

Dortmund, Sunday, February 19: The next sand track event will be held at an early hour today in Dortmund, where four of the six tests will be held in cooperation with the French PMU.


From a sporting point of view, an equalizer 3 with seven participants (5th race/13:15/5,500 euros/1200 m) stands out. Muzy (Tommaso Scardino) easily defeated Debit Card (Anna van den Troost) here. Now the weights have shifted in favor of the underdog and a reversal of form seems possible. Ken Red (Lilli-Marie Engels) returns to the site after a France interlude where he finished a good third on New Year`s Eve. No Day Never (Tolga Koyuncu) comes in as the current winner for right up front.


As a betting puzzle comes the race of the quadruple bet (4th race/12.45/4,100 euros/1200 m). The Grey Zebedee (Lilli-Marie Engels) is by far the in-form horse in the race and a possible winner, but Soller Bay (Senan Macredmond), who surprised in third last time, and Jungle Bee (Anna van den Troost), who was successful on January 22, are other contenders with early chances. Prayer Matt (Maike Riehl) has not been a big success so far after moving from England to Germany. Today`s task, however, looks solvable.

Three-year-olds in the Critérium des Jeunes

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, February 19: The Derby of three-year-olds, or better known as the Critérium des Jeunes (6th race/16.25/200,000 euros/2700 m), is up for decision today in Paris-Vincennes. Two participants from the quarters of William Bigeon deserve the first clue. King Opera (Matthieu Abrivard) and Kana de Beylev (Benjamin Rochard) have always played at the front of the pack in their year and should strike a sharp chord when they meet for the first time. The latter most recently won the Prix Roquepine (Group 2) against, among others, the higher rated Kalamity d`Heripre (Franck Nivard), who won the Prix Gelinotte (Group 2) ahead of the Bigeon mare. Koctel du Dain (David Thomain), Kamehameha (Björn Goop) and Canada (Theo Duvaldestin) have already crossed blades several times. Whether the order will be like in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (Group 2) again depends on the course of the race. Karma Quick (Clement Duvaldestin) and Ksar (Jean-Philippe Monclin) have been unbeaten four and three times in a row respectively. Both face their toughest task yet.

Duel between Shishkin and Fakir d`Oudairies

Ascot, Saturday, February 18: The Group 1 Ascot Chase (5th race/16.35/175,000 pounds/4230m) is a touchstone for six horses today for the upcoming Festival at Cheltenham. Twelve months ago, Fakir d`Oudairies (J. Slevin) was the winner. He later won the Melling Chase (Group 1) at Aintree and currently the Joseph O`Brien-trained eight-year-old triumphed at Thurles at Group 2 level. Whether it is enough to win again depends on Shishkin (Nico de Boinville), who finished third in the Tingle Creek Chase (Group 1) with no better options and only came close to rectifying his strike result from the Queen Mother Champion (Group 1). In the Henderson protégé`s favor are ten straight bull`s-eyes. Pic d`Orhy (Harry Cobden) can also boast a winning streak. With the `Weile` victory in the Silviniaco Conti Chase (Group 2) and over Millers Bank (Jonathan Burke) and First Flow (David Bass) at Huntingdon, he recommended himself emphatically for the upcoming major tasks. Aye Right`s (Ryan Mania) recent performances are not enough for a top finish.

Comeback of Nations Pride at Meydan

Meydan, Friday, February 17: At a high level, the Dubai Racing Carnival continues today at Meydan. Three-year-old fillies will be addressed in the UAE Oaks (3rd race/16.10pm/150,000 $/1900m/dirt). Last year`s US-trained Ami Please (Antonio Fresu), now under the direction of Doug O`Neill, is seen as a winner. A leading role should also be played by Mimi Kakushi (Mickael Barzalona), who came off superiorly against Awasef (Sam Hitchcott) and Asawer (Pat Dobbs) at List level here.

There is a big crowd in the Nad Al Sheba Trophy (5th race/5.20pm/$200,000/2810m/turf). 14 horses are competing at Group 3 level, four of which are provided by the Godolphin hosts. Siskany (William Buick), who has already been victorious on this course and most recently finished third on the all-weather track at Kempton, may fancy his best chances. Before that, he also finished third in the Bayern Grand Prix in Munich. Ardakan (Ben Coen) achieved the same result on his appearance four weeks ago behind Global Heat (Pat Cosgrave) and Away He Goes (Mickael Barzalona) and ahead of Wickywickywheels (Richard Mullen) and Charging Thunder (Daniel Tudhope).

Godolphin`s blue colours also feature prominently in the Dubai Millennium Stakes (6th race/5.55pm/150,000/$/2000m/turf). An impressive winner at last year`s Dubai Racing Carnival, Nations Pride (William Buick) later also performed at the highest level in the USA, should not disappoint in his seasonal debut. He will be supported by Ottoman Fleet (James Doyle), who currently has two third places to his name. Behind the latter, the Al Rashidiya (Group 2) was followed by Zagrey (Christophe Soumillon) and Freescape (Pat Dobbs), who are again looking for a place.

Saddle trotters in focus

Paris-Vincennes, Thursday, 16 February: Three group races are up for decision today in Vincennes for the saddle trotters.

The Prix Edouard Marcillac (2nd race/14.25 h/60,000 Euro/2175 m) will be contested by the three-year-old stallions/geldings. After the `Weile` triumph of Kifil de Bussy (Alexandre Abrivard) in the Prix de Cholet (Course A) over Kado Shining (Alexis Collete), the three-year-old trained by Loris Garcia is about to have his next success. Kimbo Berry (Paul Philippe Ploquin), who won on 2 January, could become a serious opponent.

The mares are under order in the Prix Holly du Locton (4th race/15.34 h/60,000 Euro/2175 m). Karlita (Alexandre Abrivard) was so convincing in her victory in January that the Fabulous Wood daughter is expected to be right up front again. Kaleda Gema (Benjamin Rochard), who is competing under saddle for the first time, must be on every betting slip. The same goes for the recently victorious Kelanie Lorraine (Paul Philippe Ploquin) and Kandora Bella (Camille Levesque).

At Group 2 level, the five-year-olds will meet in the Prix Paul Bastard (6th race/16.45/120,000 Euro/2700 m). Judging by the result of the Prix Camille Blaisot (Group 2), Ina du Rib (Jean Dersoir), Ideale du Chêne (Paul Philippe Ploquin), Ines des Rioults (Benjamin Rochard) and Icare des Valois (Camille Levesque) again register first chances, but Inshore (Alexandre Abrivard), who triumphed in the Prix Philippe du Rozier (Group 2), can also win.

German chances on the Riviera

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Wednesday, 15 February: The flat meeting in Cagnes-sur-Mer continues today with eight races. From a German point of view, the sales race Prix de la Menthe Poivree (5th race/15.40/15.000 Euro/1600 m) is interesting, in which Stefan Richter with Forbidden Secret (Marie Velon) and Marian-Falk Weissmeier with Obdurate (Léo Roussel) are participating.

The two geldings did not achieve anything worth mentioning in two and three attempts respectively this year. Thanks to their permission riders, they could earn good money today, which also applies to Arco Grande (Ambre Molins), who finished a good fifth six days ago. Interieur (Marvin Grandin) is to be measured against his two successes in November and December. Chitose (Simon Planque) was close to victory in a similar fixture in Marseille, where Mystical Prince (Antonio Orani) came easily on the same day.

Interesting

Paris-Vincennes, Tuesday, February 14: Among the better races of today`s event in Vincennes is the `Course Europeenne` Prix de Château-Gontier (5th race/16.10pm/49,000 euros/2100m) with eleven participants from different countries. Gybor Well (Matthieu Abrivard), who is in good form and recently finished second on this course, faces a solvable task. The Abrivard protégé will be challenged by Goal Star (Yoann Lebourgeois), who was victorious only eight days ago. Mister Donald (Sebastien Ernault) and Mateo de Rêve (Jean-Michel Bazire) lined up behind him. The latter disappointed his large following. A year ago, the gelding finished in a very good honorable mention ahead of Even Steven (Gabriele Gelormini). M.T.Oscar (Adrien Lamy) remained within his capabilities on January 17 and ahead of Zinko Top (Francois Lagadeuc), Mateo de Rêve and Gardner Shaw (Eric Raffin).

Best class to finish

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 13 February: Eight races are on the programme in Paris-Vincennes today. The highest class will be addressed at the end in the Prix de Senlis (8th race/17.55 h/49.000 Euro/2100 m).

Eligible to start are seven-year-old and older mares in the winning category up to 171,000 euros. After the surprising success of Gaultheria (Franck Nivard) here about a fortnight ago, the seven-year-old trained by Luc Roelens could end up right at the front again. Enerise Flash (Yoann Lebourgeois), who recently won the amateur race, and Filae de Soyora (Quentin Chauve-Laffay) are two other in-form contenders with first chances. Galie de Celiniere (Paul Philippe Ploquin) is sufficiently recommended by her triumph on 9 January. France d`Occagnes (Alexandre Abrivard) and Last Winner (Matthieu Abrivard) recently pleased in the standings and are overdue for victory.

Big revenge in the Prix de France

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 12 February: Two weeks after the Prix d`Amérique, the Prix de France (4th race/15.15 hrs/400,000 Euor/2100 m) will see a big revenge today. Eleven of the 16 `Amérique` participants will be crossing blades again and, with the exception of Italiano Vero, the five best-placed riders will also be taking part.

First and foremost the superior Hooker Berry (Nicolas Bazire), whose winning rider Jean-Michel Bazire gives preference to Beads this time, the winner of the Prix du Luxembourg (Group 2). Ampia Mede Sm (Franck Nivard) surprised in second place as did Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon) and Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc), who were not far away for silver. Don Fanucci Zet (Yoann Lebourgeois) stayed well within his capabilities. The supporters expected more from Horsy Dream (Eric Raffin), who could shine in the preparation but remained pale in the `race of races`. Vivid Wise As (Matthieu Abrivard), who galloped without a preparation race, deserves a stronger hint as last year`s winner.

First highlights at the flat meeting in Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Sunday, 12 February: The first highlights at the flat meeting in Cagnes-sur-Mer will take place today. In the Prix de la Californie (5th race/14.15 pm/55.000 Euro/1600 m/Dirt) ten three-year-olds will compete at List level. Brave Emperor (Luke Morris), who arrives from England with strong form, is considered the horse to beat. The locals are well placed with Cambronne (Marvin Grandin), Mqse de Maintenon (Stephane Pasquier), Showay (Anthony Crastus) and Machito (Antonio Orani), who won the Prix Joseph Collignon (Classe 1) here.

The Grand Prix de la Riviera Côte d`Azur (7th race/15.35 h/60,000 Euro/2000 m/Dirt) will also be decided at List level. German hopes rest on Stefan Richter`s Woodstone (Alexis Pouchin), who shone at last year`s meeting but faces a challenging task from the break. Hooking (Aurelien Lemaitre) and Kahuna ((Valentin Seguy) won here in preparation and Glaer (Jean-Bertrand Eyquem) also easily solved a flat race in Pau. Bakhchisaray (Maxime Guyon) was not much worse than Kahuna and is also considered for the front.

Four-year-olds in the Prix Ephrem Houel

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday 11 February: The highlight of today`s nine-race event at Vincennes is the Group 2 Prix Ephrem Houel (8th race/17.35/120,000 Euro/2100m). 13 four-year-old horses are competing to succeed Idao de Tillard, who was without a chance this year in the Prix d`Amérique after making a mistake.

On the same day, the Prix Ourasi (Group 1) was decided, in which there was a tough fight for the victory. Just Love You (Alexandre Abrivarde) had the advantage over Juninho Dry (Paul Philippe Ploquin), with Jag Stryck (Francois Lagadeuc), Justin Bold (Jean-Francois Senet), Jazzy Perrine (Eric Raffin) and Juliet Papa Bravo (Clement Duvaldestin) close behind. The latter disappointed after finishing narrowly beaten by Juniho Dry in the Prix Ready Cash (Group 1) for the win. Jazzy Perrine is overdue for victory. The mare, who runs faithfully in the honoured ranks, celebrated her last success in May last year in the Prix Ozo (Group 2). Joyner Sport (David Thomain) is among the absolute top of the year, but achieves his best performances under saddle. Jakartas des Pres (Maxime Bezier) also currently ran in the Monté, but the stallion has also shown strong performances in front of the sulky.

Blue Point Sprint + UAE 2000 Guineas

Meydan, Friday, February 10: More big races will be run at the Dubai Racing Carnival at Meydan today.

The Blue Point Sprint (5th race/17.20/180,000 $/1000 m/Turf) recalls the top sprinter from Godolphin, who are once again the favourites. Lazuli (William Buick) and/or Man Of Promise (James Doyle) are expected to do it for the hosts. Both settled a Listed race between themselves here on 6 January, with Ponntos (Antonio Fresu) also cutting a strong figure not far from the runner-up, keeping Acklam Express (Rowan Scott) and Raasel (Daniel Tudhope) at bay. Khuzaam (Dane O`Neill) steps up from the break. The seven-year-old last ran in the Al Quoz Sprint (Group 1) and did not finish beyond midfield. The Watson protégé is regarded as a big opponent for the Godolphins.

It is over sand that the Group 3 UAE 2000 Guineas (6th race/17.55pm/150,000 $/1600m) will be decided. Unbeaten in two starts, Tiger Nation (Mickael Barzalona) is the benchmark but the immensely impressive Lahresh (Pat Dobbs) in the Maiden win will give the bin Ghadayer charge nothing. Tall Boy (William Buick) has been running in the US so far. Together with Mr Raj (Ray Dawnon), who stood above the opposition here on January 8, he forms the chasing pack.

Interesting three-year-olds in the Prix de Vichy

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Thursday, 9 February: Once again, the best sport comes from Cagnes-sur-Mer today, where eight races are on the programme. The three-year-olds are among themselves in the Prix de Vichy (3rd race/14.25 h/26.000 Euro/1500 m), a grass track test of the category `Classe 2`.

All seven participants have already competed this year, four of them were winners, three of them on today`s course. The strongest impression was made by Rising Up (Marvin Grandin) in his commanding two-length victory over Royalties, who subsequently disappointed glaringly. Knock On (Aurelien Lemaitre) and Run Ahead (Cristian Demuro) also exited the maiden class with ease. Both have an advantage thanks to mare weight, which also applies to Aversa (Ioritz Mendizabal), who placed third here. Hoxton (Maxime Guyon), who has run twice on sand, has the highest weight. Her only victory was on Turf in Chantilly. Before that, she was second, better than Moon Ray, who had won the Prix Miesque (Group 3), which is part of Group 3. Murano (Alexandre Gavilan) came to an unchallenged success on clay in Pau. Bozzo (Anthony Crastus) recently finished far behind Hoxton.

All-Weather Qualifier in Kempton

Kempton, Wednesday, 8 February: Seven races are on the programme at the dirt track in Kempton today. The highlight is a Fast Track Qualifier (6th race/19.00/25,000 pounds/3218 m) for the All-Weather Championships, on 7 April in Newcastle.

The final ticket in the `Marathon` category could go to Earl Of Tyrone (James Doyle). The five-year-old, who has recently joined William Haggas in the quarters, lost more and more form last year after a winning streak and makes his debut on clay today. Among his fiercest rivals is Berkshire Rocco (Jason Watson), for whom Andrew Balding is responsible. The six-year-old is already qualified thanks to his recent triumph at Southwell. He defeated Rainbow Dreamer (Rossa Ryan) and Earlofthecotswolds (Tom Queally) by a length and a half, who also impressed in the next places. The latter won last year`s All-Weather Marathon against Rainbow Dreamer, among others, finishing sixth and well ahead of the chanceless Sleeping Lion (David Probert), who makes his comeback today. Solent Gateway (Ross Coakley) already had no chance against today`s rivals at Southwell and once again enters as an outsider. Metier (Saffie Osborne) changes course again after his unsuccessful performance in the Christmas Hurdle (Group 1). For him, the win on the flat track at Doncaster in November counts. Aced It (Jack Mitchell) won in lower grade at Kempton this year.

Mika d`O better than Jacksun again?

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Tuesday, 7 February: The flat meeting continues today on the Riviera with eight races. A small but fine field will start in the Prix William Alexandre Ruinat (2nd race/12.30 h/26,000 Euro/2500 m). Here Stefan Richter`s Mika d`O (A. Pouchin) and Jacksun (Aurelien Lemaitre), who finished second and last on 19 January, will meet again.

The Richter protégé corrected the previous strike result as a big outsider and showed himself to be in top form after a short break. In contrast, the Figge gelding`s running was sobering. Nevertheless, the nine-year-old is expected by the trade press to be in the lead. Laos (Anthony Crastus), who continued his series of strong performances here in a quinté handicap after a successful last year, has to be beaten. Force de l`Aube (Dorian Provost) pleased with a third place finish during the meeting and appears strong enough to run in the betting. Belgian Prince (Marvin Grandin) and Duke of Conker (Nicolas Guilbert) could still be behind in condition at the first start of the year.

Aljadeed faces difficult task

Chantilly, Monday, 6 February: Nine races are on the programme at the beginning of the week in Chantilly. In the Prix de Plailly (5th race/13.25 h/27.000 Euro/1600 m), a `Classe-2` competition with seven participants, Mario Hofer with Aljadeed (Stefanie Koyuncu) tries to put right the last two disastrous performances on this course. It remains to be seen whether he will succeed against strong competition.

The Dortmund sand track winner from last year will meet Eagleway (Christophe Soumillon) again, who was a narrow winner at the France comeback on 23 December. Among the closest favourites is the over 300,000 Euro We Ride The World (Anthony Crastus). Although he only ran at the back in his season debut in Cagnes-sur-Mer, the eight-year-old has the necessary class that should be enough to win. Twist (Maxime Guyon) won here last year and currently the protégé of Carlos Laffon-Parias was second in Deauville. Le Nomade (Hugo Journiac) and Ciccio Boy (Gerald Mosse) fought out a Quinté handicap in November and are conceivable at any time in the front. Brazilian Surprise (Cristian Demuro) underlined her strong form with a second place in the `Classe 1`.

The next sand meeting in Dortmund with seven races

Dortmund, Sunday, 5 February: The sand track season in Dortmund is in full swing, even though only two dates are scheduled per month. On Sunday, it continues with seven races between 11:20 am and 2:20 pm in Dortmund. Of course, PMU is also involved again with the broadcast of races 1 to 4.

An Equalisation III over a distance of 1,800 metres is the most interesting race from a sporting point of view. With Mon Mistral (M. Riehl) and Synonymous (M. Sanna), there are two fresh winners who should again have the best cards. But Aradous (St. Koyuncu) is also up for grabs.

The sales race over 1,700 metres is also appealing. There could be a duel between Lord of the Alps (R. Weber) and Honore Daumier (G. Snijders).

10,000 Euros will be paid out in the four-way bet of the 4th race (Equalisation IV, 1,700 metres). Outfit (M. Riehl) should be able to make it one day and is a potential reserve horse.

Irish Champion Hurdles with Honeysuckle

Leopardstown, Sunday, 5 February: On the second day of the Dublin Festival in Leopardstown, numerous classics are on the programme such as the Irish Champion Hurdle (5th race/16.10 h/200,000 Euro/3220 m), which is more strongly contested than ever before.

Honeysuckle (Rachael Blackmore), undefeated for several years, suffered a stinging defeat in the Hatton`s Grace Hurdle (Group 1), but the nine-year-old should be back to her usual strength. She certainly does not face a walkover as the five-time unbeaten State Man (Paul Townend) will give her all she can handle. A year ago, the Mullins protégé won the Matheson Hurdle (Group 1) in superior fashion ahead of Vauban (Danny Mullins), who pinned the JCB Triumph Hurdle (Group 1) at Cheltenham to his banner last year.

In the Dublin Chase (3rd race/15.10/150,000 Euro/3420m) Blue Lord (Paul Townend) should stay on the winning track. The only threat to the Willie Mullins-trained winner of the Rewars Club Chase (Group 1) here in December is Gentleman de Me (Mark Walsh), who recently finished far behind Blue Lord after an unfortunate run. Sceau Royal (Daryl Jacob) runs reliably to the front and comes into question ahead of the rest.

`Cornulier`-Revanche in the Prix-de-I`Ile-de-France

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 5 February: Two weeks after the decision in the Prix de Cornulier, the Plateau de Gravelle will host the Prix de I`Ile de France (4th race/15.15 h/200,000 Euro/2175 m), with the victorious Flamme du Goutier conspicuous by her absence.

The honourably defeated Granvillaise Bleue (Camille Levesque) and Hanna des Molles (Alexandre Abrivard), who also ran well in third place, thus share the role of favourites. A look at last year`s results reveals the drop in form of Freeman de Houelle (Benjamin Rochard), who made short work of Granvillaise Bleue twelve months ago, but is currently only a follower. Vaprio (Nathalie Henry) and Zarenne Fas (Mathieu Mottier) exceeded expectations in the `Cornulier` behind the top trio and Hirondelle du Rib (Jean Dersoir) also performed well in sixth. Happy and Lucky (Adrien Lamy) fell short, but with the running in the Prix Bilibili (Group 1) behind the winning Hanna des Moles, things should be possible again.

Dublin-Festival in Leopardstown

Leopardstown, Saturday, 4 February: Over two days, the Dublin Festival takes place in Leopardstown. Today the Irish Gold Cup (4th race/16.05 h/250.000 Euro/4870 m) is on top.

The clear favourite for the Group 1 chasing test is the Willie Mullins-trained Galopin des Champs (Paul Townend). The highly superior winner of the Punchestown Chase (Group 1) in December should not lose if he runs faultlessly, but in-form stablemate Stattler (P. Mullins) will not let him take the field without a fight. He last brought Minella Indo to the brink of defeat in the New Years Day Chase (Group 3). Kemboy (Rachael Blackmore) won two years ago and currently excels with four consecutive honours. He was better in the Savills Chase (Group 1) than Fury Road (Davy Russell), who won the Eventsec Chase (Group 2) at Down Royal. The Big Dog (Keith Donoghue), Any Second Now (Mark Walsh) and Franco De Port (Danny Mullins) complete the seven-strong field with outside chances.

Two Listed Races at Lingfield

Lingfield, Saturday, 4 February: The Fibersand track at Lingfield is the venue for two Listed races today, which are also sighting tests for the All-Weather Championships.

In the Kachy Stakes (5th race/15.26pm/£45,000/1210m), a duel is brewing between recent winners Summerghand (Jason Watson) and Annaf (Rossa Ryan). The former won the Golden Rose Stakes (List race) here against Exalted Angel (Clifford Lee), among others, and before that he was only defeated by Rohaan, who finished fourth in the Champions Sprint Stakes (Group 1), at Group 3 level at Ascot. Annaf has already won twice over sand this year. Vadream (Ryan Moore) has only raced over Turf since her debut victory on today`s surface. She finished a strong third in the Prix de Seine-et-Oise (Group 3) on her last outing.

The Tandridge Stakes (6th race/16.01pm/£45,000/1610m) could be a haul for Tempus (Luke Morris), who has made two of his five appearances over `All-weather` victorious. The odds are no worse for Sir Busker (Ryan Moore), who performed well at Meydan last year and was third in the Juddmonte International Stakes (Group 1) most recently. Manaafith (Jim Crowley) has yet to lose a race over dirt and could steal the show from the first two.

Dubai Racing Carnival with Adrie de Vries

Meydan, Friday, February 3: Over one million dollars will be paid out in six flat races at today`s event at Meydan. The lion`s share will go to the Al Maktoum Challenge (5th race/5.20pm/350,000 $/1900m/dirt), which has Group 2 status and gathers nine horses at the starting gate.

The question of the winner should be answered by Algiers (James Doyle), who stood well above his opponents at the opening round and corrected the mediocre result from last year in the Godolphin Mile (Group 2). The German-bred Salute The Soldier (Adrie de Vries) also made a strong impression a week later when beating Atletico El Culano (Jose Da Silva) and Bendoog (Ryan Moore), who finished next about three lengths behind the Abdulla charge. A year ago and not yet part of the Dubai Racing Carnival, a Listed race was decided here, with Remorse (Tadhg O`Shea) finishing ahead of Bendoog and First Constitution (Pat Dobbs).

For mares, the Group 2-counted Cape Verdi (4th race/16.45/180,000 $/1600 m/Turf) is reserved. With The Moonlight (William Buick), who started the season victoriously in last year`s Pretty Polly Stakes (List race) at Newmarket and has recently enjoyed great success in the USA, forms the group of favourites together with Soft Whisper (Daniel Tudhope), Wild Beauty (James Doyle) and White Moonlight (Adrie de Vries), who also run for Godolphin.

The same picture is emerging in the Singspiel Stakes (6th race/5.55pm/180,000 $/1800m/turf), as the meanies are once again provided by Godolphin`s Royal Blue. Valiant Prince (James Doyle), Dubai Future (Adrie de Vries) and Ottoman Fleet (William Buick) already set the tone in the Al Rashidiya (Group 2) and the trifecta could repeat. Perhaps Shelir (Daniel Tudhope), who ran superbly second in the Zabeel Mile, will manage to break through the hosts` phalanx.