Points chase for the Kentucky Derby

Chelmsford, Thursday, March 31: The all-weather track at Chelmsford today becomes the last venue in Europe to offer six contenders the chance to earn valuable points towards an entry in the Kentucky Derby on May 7 in the USA in the Woodford Reserve Cardinal Conditions Stakes (7th race/7.45pm/100,000 pounds/1609m).

Trained by Charlie Appleby for Godolphin, Blue Trail (William Buick) has already collected 20 points as a qualifier winner at Kempton. The three-year-old won by a `nose` over Harrow (David Probert), who crossed the finish line just as close ahead of Find (David Egan). The decision should be made between the three contenders, but Mr Professor (Silvestre de Sousa), who has been well placed at Meydan this year but recently ran weakly at Saint-Cloud at Listed level, could throw a spanner in the works of the first-named. A good performance by Dark Moon Rising (Kevin Stott), who showed good beginnings last year, cannot be ruled out either. Atheby (Stevie Donohoe) will have a hard time judging by his performance in Kempton.

Grand National du Trot in Salon-de-Provnce

Salon-de-Provence, Wednesday, March 30: The Grand national du Trot continues to make its rounds and stops today in Salon-de-Provence, where 16 horses from two band divisions will compete in the opener (1st race/13.50 pm/90,000 euros/3000 m).

Evariste du Bourg (Steve Stefano), who was honorably defeated with allowance last time at the Riviera after an imposing winning streak, has best chances for the full success. Previously, he won a `B` race superiorly against Eden Basque (Nicolas Ensch), among others, who scored the first goal of the season in the same place 17 days ago against Dixit Danica (Stephane Cingland), among others. Campione Mio (Denis Brossard) repeatedly had it too hard with handicap, now the ten-year-old faces an easier task. On March 6 he came in n Agen-le Passage well behind the better placed Cris Luis Porsguen (Frederic Clozier), Express du Gers (Pierre Vercruysse) and Day de Bellouet (Jean-Christophe Sorel). In the latest `GNT` leg, Django du Bocage (David Bekaert) surprised in second and the midfield included Divine Monceau (Alexandre Abrivard), Festif Charmant (Cedric Terry) and Crack Money (Jean-Charles Feron). Fragonard Delo (Kevin Leblanc) did quite respectably in Vincennes and, like the reliable Eden Julry (Jean-Paul Gauvin), is conceivable at any time in the front.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

Interesting harness racing in Enghien

Enghien, Tuesday, March 29: Eight exciting trotting races are on the program today in Enghien. A lucrative earning opportunity is available for seven-year-old and older European saddle trotters in the Prix du Pont de Grenelle (4th race/6.15pm/65,000 euros/2250m). Prepared by Jean-Michel Bazire, Fulton (Matilde Herleiksplass) has been running reliably to the front for months and should not be denied the match. He won a recent `C` ride in Vincennes in high style over Folie du Choquel (Francois Lagadeuc) and Dow Jones Emge (Arthur Rebeche), who settled the battle for third between them. Emiliano Zapata (Delphine Beaufils Ernault) will get a favorable opportunity to correct his latest strike result, which was trapped by a canter. Before that, the gelding celebrated an unchallenged victory ahead of Elvis d`Evron (Paul Philippe Ploquin), who had exceeded expectations two lengths back, as did Cromy (Pierre-Yves Verva) in fifth. The upward trend continues for Filoe de Jary (Florian Desmigneux). The mare is sufficiently recommended with two top performances from Cagnes-sur-Mer. Terribile Gso (Alexandre Abrivard) will find great following as the 2019 track winner.

Egot in Prix Cor de Chasse with highest mark

Fontainebleau, Monday, March 28: Older horses are the target of today`s Prix Cor de Chasse (2nd race/14:25/52,000 euros/1100m) in Fontainebleau, which is part of the Listed class. The maximum-weight Egot (Mickael Barzalona), trained by Andre Fabre for Godolphin, faces no walkover but cannot avoid being the favorite. The then three-year-old was certainly ahead in his last appearance in the Prix de Seine-et-Oise (Group 3) and recorded another success after winning at Saint-Cloud and Deauville at Listed level. Midlife Crisis (Olivier Peslier) and Live (Maxime Guyon) ran placed on the dirt just under three weeks ago and are about to score their first of the season. Elysium (Victor Seguy) ran in three valuable wins in Ireland and should not disappoint on his French debut. Isle of May (Julien Guillochon) turned in her best performance to date when second in the Prix Sigy (Group 3) a year ago and is Godolphin`s second hope. Flying Candy (Alexandre Gavilan) last won a handicap on this course against, among others, Baileys Blues (Tony Piccone), who exceeded expectations in the Prix Anabaa (Classe 1) against better opponents. Stormbringer (Benjamin Marie) lost form after three wins in a row and took a break. He should finish far ahead in top form.

Kick-off of the spring meeting in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Friday, March 25: Only briefly lasted the break in Vincennes, where the spring meeting begins today with an evening card around two Group 2 races for three-year-old saddle trotters.

Among the nine stallions competing in the Prix Felicien Gauvreau (5th race/20.50pm/120,000 euros/2200m), less than half have already won a race. Joker Batman (Damien Bonne) was convincing here in a `D` ride as a highly superior winner over Jackpot du Choquel (Paul Philippe Ploquin), who could thoroughly please smoothly. The Bonne protégé faces arguably his fiercest opponent Jaspers Turgot (David Thomain), who was in a class of his own in the Prix Edouard Marcillac (Group 3). Jelyson (Yoann Lebourgeois) and Jasper des Pres (Guillaume Martin) had secured the better places far back. Jubile Prior (Aurelioen Desmarres) is a newcomer in the saddle-metier and judging by the sulky performances shown so far first choice. Jolly Roger (Adrien Lamy) did nothing wrong against Juby de Bailly (Mathieu Mottier) at `B` level in January.

Among the fillies in the Prix Ali Hawas (7th race/21:44pm/120,000 euros/2200m), the immensely consistent Junon du Leard (Paul Philippe Ploquin) stands out. Five starts, four wins and one place of honor is the flawless record of the three-year-old, who recently crossed the finish line far ahead of the rest in the Prix Holly du Locton (Group 3). Jipsy du Noyer (Alexandre Abrivard) still followed her to some extent, then a larger gap gaped to Julia de la Noe (Eric Raffin), Josefine de Bailly (Guillaume Martin) and Judy Blue Eyes (Adrien Lamy). Jamaica (Benoit Rochard) has a spotless record. The Monclin mare currently won a `D` ride against Javanette (Delphine Beaufils Ernault), before that she triumphed in front of the sulky. Joyeuse (Mathieu Mottier) makes her saddle debut and immediately appears interesting.

Dato against strong competition

Saint-Cloud, Thursday, March 24: With a Listed race and seven other high-class tests, the track in Saint-Cloud is in focus today.

The Prix de la Porte de Madrid (6th race/16:45/52,000 euros/2400 m) will be contested by seven horses. Among them is Dato (Alexis Pouchin), trained by Sascha Smrczek for the Grafenberg stable. At his last start of the season in Nantes, the six-year-old won the 14th leg of the Défi du Galop race series (Listed race). Before that, he took a strong place of honor at Group 3 level in Baden-Baden. The Smrczek protégé`s fiercest rival is likely to be Mutabahi (Olivier Peslier), who has already performed well on the Riviera this year. In the Prix du Grand Camp (list race), the Pantall stallion finished second ahead of Narcos (Mickael Forest). The latter surprised in the Grand Prix du Departement (list race) as third. Brokeback Mountain (Gregory Benoist) came back from a short break to finish second on the sand track at Chantilly. The Good Man (Theo Bachelot) and Timour (Mickael Barzalona) ended last season with two placings at an upper level.

Gran Geste can win

Le Croise-Laroche, Wednesday, 23 March: The Hippodrome de Marcq en Baroeuil in Le Croise-Laroche is the venue for eight interesting tests today. Among the races with German participation is the concluding Prix de Saint-Andre (8th race/20.15 h/15,000 Euro/2500 m).

Waldemar Hickst will saddle Gran Geste (Eddy Hardouin), who is competing for the first time this year. The Lord-of-England son, owned by Guido Schmitt, finished last season one category higher with a fifth place. The gelding celebrated his last victory in May in Chantilly. One of his opponents is the little-tried but reliable betting horse Theoreme (Clement Lecoeuvre). Smart Cookie (Hugo Boutin) embodied better class and stands favourably in the lot with his permission rider. Mirasch (Maryline Eon), who took a longer break and triumphed in Saint-Cloud just under a year ago, is also among the meant. After a year, You Rock (Tony Piccone) is back in the race. The five-year-old has seen other opponents and could beat all of them if well prepared. Imperial Beauty (Aurelien Lemaitre) seems a tad stronger than Marina Gamba (Lorette Gallo) and First Conde (Christophe Dehens).

Season debut of Diamantis

Chantilly, Tuesday, March 22: The sand track in Chantilly is the venue today for eight exciting races with German participation. Trainer Andreas Suborics will saddle Diamantis (Martin Seidl), who was beaten below value in the Derby, in the Prix du Canal de la Machine (2nd race/14.25 pm/28,000 euros/1900 m). A year ago, the Golden Horn son scored his first win in Düsseldorf, then followed it up with another here on the grass track. After an unremarkable run in the St. Leger, Diamantis switched to the break. His stablemate Wow was taken out of the field early. The priority is to beat Chachnak (Enzo Crublet), who won here in February and ran without a chance in the `Arc de Triomphe` in 2020. Charlesquint (Gregory Benoist), who finished third here three weeks ago, and Thirsty (Cristian Demuro), who follows not far behind, are also horses with early chances. Roberto Mount (Marc Nobili) knows the track inside out and should play a supporting role. Wild Gypsy Boy (Anna van den Troost) travels from Belgium with two meaningful winning forms. He claims weight allowance as well as High Trend (Marylien Eon), for whom it is the first appearance after his winning performance 21 months ago.

Quello in Compiegne

Compiegne, Monday, 21 March: Eight races are on the programme at the Hippodrome de Compiegne at the beginning of the week. Peter Schiergen is a guest and is among the outsiders with good chances in the Prix des Etangs de Saint-Pierre (4th race/15.35 h/28,000 Euro/1600 m) with Klaus Allofs and Gestüt Fährhof`s Quello (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev).

Back on the grass track, the four-year-old should forget his recent strike result from Chantilly over sand. With the performance shown in the Prix le Fabuleux (Listed race) when second to Longvillers (Gregory Benoist), Quello could be far. One of his opponents is In Crowd (Olivier Peslier), who has a remarkable run of three honours in the form book. The Head protégé is due for a win but has his work cut out for him at top weight. With a more favourable mark, Pimento (Mickael Barzalona) should be wide. The Iffraaj son, who started the season promisingly last year but took a long break after finishing second in the Prix Djebel (Group 3), announced himself for bigger tests again on 8 March in Chantilly. Dolia (Christophe Soumillon) also had a promising start to her career, but after taking the honours in the Prix Volterra (Listed race), it was over for the Aga Khan mare for the time being. Sweet Victory (Clement Guitraud) did not get beyond the midfield in her last appearance on site at List level. The permission rider speaks for her. Kimina (Cristian Demuro), who won twice in autumn, and Afghany (Maxime Guyon), who was currently beaten below value in Cagnes-sur-Mer, are not out of the world.

Group 3 in Auteuil

Auteuil, Sunday, March 20: An extensive program with ten steeplechase races will be offered today in Auteuil. Highlights are two Group 3 races over the hurdles and hunter jumps.

Seven geldings will meet in the Prix Troytown (6th race/16.25pm/135,000 euros/4400m). Poly Grandchamp (Bertrand Lestrade) took the honors last year. After three further appearances, he won the Prix La Haye Jousselin (Group 1) to close the season. Eddy de Balme (Gaetan Masure) did not get over the jumps without an accident in that match, just as he is currently doing in the Prix Robert de Clermont-Tonnerre (Group 3). In Pau, however, it was enough for third place in the Grand Prix. Sel Jem (Johnny Charon) runs for the first time outside the vintage and could beat everyone with a favorable mark. Pache Senam (Angelo Zuliani) and Dream Wish (Jeremy da Silva) battled here in the Prix Fondeur (Listed race) and Prix Georges Courtois (Group 2), there is not much difference between the two six-year-olds.

Four-year-old hurdle horses are the target of the Prix d`Indy (9th race/18.10pm/120,000 euros/3600m). Hawai du Berlais (Pierre Dubourg), unbeaten in three starts, takes the fight to Kyrov (Gwen Richard), also a winner. Most recently, the gelding won the Grande Course de Haies des 3 Ans (Group 1) in superior fashion over Golden Son (Angelo Zuliani) and Imprenable (Clement Lefebvre). Ivanohe (Bertrand Lestrade), Bathyscaphe (James Reveley) and Norville (Nicolas Gauffenic) are hardly distinguishable from the favorites on paper and are conceivable at any time in the front run.

Group 3 in Auteuil

Auteuil, Sunday, March 20: An extensive program with ten steeplechase races will be offered today in Auteuil. Highlights are two Group 3 races over the hurdles and hunter jumps.

Seven geldings will meet in the Prix Troytown (6th race/16.25pm/135,000 euros/4400m). Poly Grandchamp (Bertrand Lestrade) took the honors last year. After three further appearances, he won the Prix La Haye Jousselin (Group 1) to close the season. Eddy de Balme (Gaetan Masure) did not get over the jumps without an accident in that match, just as he is currently doing in the Prix Robert de Clermont-Tonnerre (Group 3). In Pau, however, it was enough for third place in the Grand Prix. Sel Jem (Johnny Charon) runs for the first time outside the vintage and could beat everyone with a favorable mark. Pache Senam (Angelo Zuliani) and Dream Wish (Jeremy da Silva) battled here in the Prix Fondeur (Listed race) and Prix Georges Courtois (Group 2), there is not much difference between the two six-year-olds.

Four-year-old hurdle horses are the target of the Prix d`Indy (9th race/18.10pm/120,000 euros/3600m). Hawai du Berlais (Pierre Dubourg), unbeaten in three starts, takes the fight to Kyrov (Gwen Richard), also a winner. Most recently, the gelding won the Grande Course de Haies des 3 Ans (Group 1) in superior fashion over Golden Son (Angelo Zuliani) and Imprenable (Clement Lefebvre). Ivanohe (Bertrand Lestrade), Bathyscaphe (James Reveley) and Norville (Nicolas Gauffenic) are hardly distinguishable from the favorites on paper and are conceivable at any time in the front run.

The grass is back

Krefeld, Sunday, 20 March: Finally, many turf fans will be saying to themselves, on Sunday the green turf will once again be the hub of the gallop action, as the 2022 grass track season opens in Krefeld. A total of seven races await you between 11:15 am and 2:15 pm. Races 1 to 5 will also be broadcast to France.

Over 1,400 metres, there will be a three-year-old test. Here Naruto (B. Murzabayev) might find it much easier than on some other occasions. Among others, he will be up against Henk Grewe`s new acquisition Volarossa (M. Cadeddu). In the 1,400-metre Equaliser III, ex-series winners Olidaya (S. Biessey) and Star Gypsy (S. Byrne) could pick up the thread of success. At the 2,050 metre distance, Sarriga (L. Wolff) should be forgiven a slip, plus track specialist Vernatsch (A. Weis) could win straight back.

The four-way bet with a 10,000 Euro guaranteed payout will be offered in the 5th race (Compensation IV, 1,400 metres). Many things seem conceivable, therefore Fusee D` Or (L. Wolff) is only a potential set horse.

Lord Charming in the Turf opener

Saint-Cloud, Saturday 19 March: The first flat race at Group level over grass takes place today at Saint-Cloud with the Prix Exbury (6th race/17.00/80,000 euros/2000m).

Peter Schiergen travels with the Derby fourth Lord Charming (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) and meets Skalleti (Maxime Guyon), who gave him a clear rebuff in the Grand Dallmayr Prize (Group 1). Most recently, the Schiergen protégé ran over sand in Chantilly and finished fifth in a strong field behind Dawn Intello (Gerald Mosse), who caused a sensation in La Coupe de Maisons-Laffitte (Group 3) last year, among others. In the Premio Roma, fourth place was enough for Skalleti, whose victory in the Italo-Classic was the 17th and last so far. His stable mate Road To Arc (Antonio Orani) also came to victory in Rome. He won the Premio Jockey Club ahead of Alter Adler, who finished second to Lord Charming in the Derby. Pretty Tiger (Christophe Soumillon) celebrated his most valuable victory here in the Prix Eugene Adam (Group 2), then followed second place in the Prix Guillaume d`Ornano (Group 2). Currently, the four-year-old scored points in the Grand Prix de la Riviera Côte d`azur (Listed race). Mr de Pourceaugnac (Hugo Besnier) improved continuously and went into the break with a narrow defeat in the Prix du Conseil de Paris (Group 2). Hurricane Dream (Mickael Barzalona), Il Decamerone (Alexis Pouchin) and the only mare in the field, Shine For You (Aurelien Lemaitre), cannot be ruled out for a surprise.

Gold Cup with last year`s winner

Cheltenham, Friday 18 March: The Festival at Cheltenham concludes today with a seven-race card featuring the centrepiece Gold Cup (4th race/16.30pm/550,000 pounds/5294m).

Mindella Indo (Robbie Power) from the stable of Henry de Bromhead won the classic last year and the nine-year-old has the best chance of defending his title. In the preparation for the Irish Gold Cup (Group 1) he put a big exclamation mark as second. Al Boum Photo (Paul Townend) is the senior in the eleven-strong field and after all a two-time winner of this fixture. Whether his winning performance from Tramore in the New Year`s Day Chase (Group 3) will be enough for a top spot remains to be seen.

The English bookmakers rate Galvin (Davy Russell) and A Plus Tard (Rachael Blackmore) highest. The two eight-year-olds had their last clash in the Savills Chase (Group 1) on 28 December and only a `head` separated the two disputants. Protectorate (Harry Skelton) was on his own at Aintree in a race marked by retirements. Here in the Gold Cup Handicap Chase (Group 3) he was just a length short of victory. Royale Pagaille (Charlie Deutsch) was second in the Denman Chase (Group 2). Tornado Flyer (Danny Mullins) will find many supporters as winner of the King George VI Chase (Group 1). The certainly not bad Chantry House (Nico de Boinville), Asterion Forlonge (B. Cooper), Santini (Nick Shoelfield) and Aye Right (Callum Bewley) would provide high odds in the betting.

Ryanair Chase + Stayers Hurdle in focus

Cheltenham, Thursday 17 March: Great steeplechase racing will also be on offer on the third day of the Cheltenham Festival.

In the Ryanair Chase (3rd race/15.50/370,000 pounds/4139m) Willie Mullins` Allaho (Paul Townend) could add his name to the winners` list for the second time. Twelve months ago he won by a superior twelve lengths and currently he is also in the best position with two successes. At Punchestown, the eight-year-old pinned the John Durkan Memorial Chase (Group 1) against Janidil (Mark Walsh) and Melon (P. Mullins) to his banner. The latter came to an unchallenged victory in the Red Mills Chase (Group 2). Janidil lost in the Irish Gold Cup (Group 1) recently in the fight for second place only by a razor-thin margin. The win went to Conflated (Davy Russell), who is tipped to be a big opponent for Allaho. Shan Blue (Harry Skelton), apart from his last appearance at Wetherby, runs reliably up front and, like Eldorado Allen (Brendan Power) who romped in the Denman Chase (Group 2), deserves increased notice.

The Stayers Hurdle (4th race/16.30pm/320,000 pounds/4785m) is headed by Flooring Porter (Danny Mullins), who won the fixture last year and was beaten two lengths by Klassical Dream (Paul Townend) on his last start in the Christmas Hurdle (Group 1). The Mullins charge won the Supreme Novices Hurdle (Group 1) here three years ago. Two months ago, the eight-year-old had no chance of winning the John Mulhern Galmoy Hurdle (Group 2) against Royal Kahala (Kevin Sexton) and Home By The Lee (J. Slevin). Champ (Jonjo O`Neill Jr), Thyme Hill (Tom O`Brien) and Paisley Park (Aidan Coleman) took the top three places in Ascot`s Long Walk Hurdle (Group 1). The latter won the Stayers Hurdle three years ago.

Champion Chase with top line-up

Cheltenham, Wednesday, 16 March: At the Cheltenham Festival, one highlight follows the other. Today`s second day sees the Queen Mother Champion Chase (4th race/16.30/400,000 pounds/3199m) take centre stage.

Last year`s top three finishers, Put The Kettle On (Aidan Coleman), Nuba Negra (Harry Skelton), Chacun Pour Soi (P. Mullins), do the honours. The former disappointed on her last start, following in a distant fifth at Fairyhouse. Prior to that, she finished third in the Shloer Chase (Group 2) behind the winning Nube Negra, currently fourth in the Tingle Creek Chase (Group 1). The Mullins protégé successfully prepared for today`s task in the Dublin Chase (Group 1). The winning decision was to be between Shishkin (Nico de Boinville) and Energumene (Paul Townend). The two eight-year-olds last dueled in the Clarence House Chase (Group 1) at Ascot. Shishkin kept his clean sheet by a length against the Frenchman, whose run of seven wins came to an end.

Listed races on grass and sand

Chantilly, Wednesday 16 March: Two Listed races for Derby age horses on grass and sand are the highlights of the eight-trial card at Chantilly today.

The Prix Ronde de Nuit (3rd race/15.18pm/55,000 Euro/1100m), leading over Turf, sees the three first-place finishers of the Criterium de Vitesse (Listed race) of 28 October back in Dizzy Bizu (Theo Bachelot), Favourite Child (Cristian Demuro) and Elliptic (Gavin Ryan). The decision could again be made between the three mares, but Fearless Angel (Christophe Soumillon) and Starfix (Maxime Guyon), who arrived from England with good form, are also contenders with the best chances. German interests are represented by Lady Fantasia (Anthony Crastus), trained by Hans Blume. She won a Maiden race here over sand and recommended herself for better tasks.

The Prix Montenica (6th race/17.20 h/55,000 Euro/1300 m) will be decided on dirt. Twelve horses with a proven track record are under order, and this year`s successful Zawaaya (Maxime Guyon), Kingentleman (Mickael Barzalona), Criollo (Cieren Fallon) and Rose Premium (Cristian Demuro) are only a small selection of contenders for victory. Healing Oasis (Ioritz Mendizabal) has not yet lost a race and, like La Cadeau (Gerald Mosse), who was twice placed in Chantilly, has every chance.

Starting signal for the Cheltenham Festival

Cheltenham, Tuesday 15 March: It`s that time again. The famous Cheltenham Festival starts today at Prestbury Park and continues for four days.

The best that steeplechasing has to offer at the moment is served up in the Champion Hurdle (4th race/16.30/450,000 pounds/3298m) by Honeysuckle (Rachael Blackmore), unbeaten in 14 appearances. The Henry de Bromhead-trained mare is targeting her next score and has nine rivals to clear. Last year`s winner and winner of three Irish Champion Hurdles will be tested by Appreciate It (Paul Townend), who has not been on the course since his last Group 1 win here a year ago in the Supreme Novices Hurdle but comes to the start well prepared, according to his trainer Willie Mullins.

Teadhupoo (Robbie Power) leads the group of outsiders. This season, Gordon Elliott`s charge has not lost a race. Currently he was superiorly ahead in the Red Mills Trial Hurdle (Group 3). Epatante (Aidan Coleman) is recommended by his third place from last year ahead of Not So Sleepy (Jonathan Burke), among others. He also won the Christmas Hurdle (Group 1) at Kempton. Adagio (Tom Scudamore) and Zanahiyr (Jack Kennedy) ran in the JCB Triumph Hurdle (Group 1) a year ago and were in the picture behind the winner. Tommy`s Oscar (Danny McMenamin) did nothing wrong in the Haydock trial but the in-form seven-year-old will need to improve, as will Saint Roi (Mark Walsh), who finished fourth behind Honeysuckle at Leopardstown.

Strong three-year-olds in Chantilly

Chantilly, Monday, 14 March: Eight races will be held today at the Fibersand track in Chantilly. Two competitions of the category `Classe 2` are reserved for the three-year-olds.

The stallions/geldings will contest the Prix du Lieutenant (2nd race/14.25pm/28,000 Euro/1600m). All eight participants are seasonal debutants. Al Hakeem (Cristian Demuro) and Westminster Night (Clement Lecoeuvre) won their first race on this course and are considered track specialists, as is Star Rock (Olivier Peslier), who won over sand in Deauville. Tipperary Sunset (Christophe Soumillon) already tried his hand at Group 2 level in the Prix Robert Papin, but played no part when heavily bet. Zagrey (Gregory Benoist), Khan (Gerald Mosse), First Ray (Mickael Barzalona) and Sitello (Maxime Guyon) are not to be ignored due to their good performances last year.

In the mares` Prix du Château (3rd race/15.00/28.000 Euro/1600 m), Delida (Aurelien Lemaitre) is the only one of six participants to have a fresh victory. She won here effortlessly just over a month ago. Subahiyah (Cristian Demuro) put down her maiden here in convincing style a year ago. Dancinginthestreet (Christophe Soumillon) and Nadette (Theo Bachelot) are Group 3 tested and, like National Dance (Mickael Barzalona) and Gregarina (Stephane Pasquier), who were successful in Normandy, should be taken into account.

Vivid Wise As the clear favourite in the Grand Critérium

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Sunday, 13 March: There will be a reunion with numerous protagonists of the Paris Winter Meeting today in the final in Cagnes-sur-Mer in the Grand Critérium de Vitesse Côte d`Azur (4th race/15.15 h/200,000 Euro/1609 m).

Last year`s triumphant Vivid Wise As (Matthieu Abrivard) showed all his class in the Prix de France (Group 1) and won the `Amérique`-Revanche almost superior against Delia du Pommereux (David Thomain) and Zacon Gio (Roberto Vecchione). The starting position speaks against the Italian, but the form is right and another success is a mere formality. From pole position, Zacon Gio will be interesting and Cokstile (Gabriele Gelormini), who won the Prix de Bourgogne (Group 2), should also benefit from the favourable starting position. At that time, the Bondo protégé defeated Vivid Wise As and Billie de Montfort (Eric Raffin), who like Bahia Quesnot (Junior Guelpa) are still good enough for a surprise despite their old age. Vitruvio (Alessandro Gocciadoro) was in the picture in fifth in the `France` and with a little racing luck there is more in it this time. Etonnant (Anthony Barrier) put in another first-class performance over the marathon distance. The best memory is still the success in the Prix du Bourbonnais (Group 2) against Face Time Bourbon. Alcoy (Christophe Martens), like Elsa de Belfonds (Thomas Levesque), knows the track inside out and must not be underestimated.

Dortmund`s finale with a four-way bet and many specialists

Dortmund, Sunday, 13 March: The 2021/22 sand track season was somewhat thinned out this time compared to previous years, but once again the all-weather track in Wambel proved to be the reliable pillar of the programme during the cold season. The last event is scheduled for Sunday before Krefeld opens the round of grass tracks 20223 a week later.

Within the six tests between 11:20 am and 1:50 pm (the first four races are also part of the PMU card in France), the 1,200-metre Equaliser III deserves special attention. Cipriani (St. Koyuncu) from the stable of Mario Hofer is one of the discoveries of the past weeks and once again a strong factor. With guests from the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, the line-up is very international.

Interesting horses are also trying their hand in the sales race over 1,700 metres. Esprit de Corps (P. Gibson) was successful here last time. Tag (B. Murzabayev) did not stand out yet on his debut for the new stable, but it is much easier here than in France.

10,000 euros beckon as a guaranteed payout in the four-horse bet of the 4th race (Equaliser IV, 1,950 m). Stay First (B. Ganbat) has settled in very well in the new stable and offers himself as "Steller".

Imperial Cup takes centre stage

Sandown, Saturday 12 March: Top-class steeplechasing takes place at Sandown today, where the Imperial Cup (3rd race/15.25pm/100,000 pounds/3210m), run as a Handicap Hurdle, is one of the best races.

Balco Coastal (Nico de Boinville) was close to winning at Cheltenham at Group 2 level, he faces a solvable task. Onemorefortheroad (Jack Quinlan) and Hystery Bere (Aidan Coleman) also deliver nothing but top performances and should not be missing from any consideration. Lucky One (Harry Skelton) ran strongly enough in third at Ascot to have a say here. Hacker Des Places (Angus Cheledra) showed another upward trend when winning at Chepstow. Samarrive (Harry Cobden) will be given plenty of confidence as the December track winner.

Latino des Isles the horse to beat

Auteuil, Saturday, 12 March: The obstacle course in Auteuil offers eight races today. Aimed at four-year-old horses, the Prix Duc d`Anjou (7th race/5.35pm/135,000 euros/3500m). The chase race gathers eight participants at the starting line.

After the impressions Latino des Isles (Pierre Dubourg) made here in the Prix Congress (Group 2) as `Weile` winner ahead of Iniesta du Gouet (Angelo Zuliani) and Iamastar (Felix de Giles), the gelding should win. The first start after the break and the fact that Tonguetted (James Reveley) performed effortlessly in Fontainebleau after nine months out of action speaks against him. Morgan Has (Gaetan Masure) left the Pau meeting unbeaten, winning easily on each of two appearances. Most recently, the four-year-old defeated Tennesee Basc (Olivier Jouin), who followed six lengths behind, at List level. Iceo Madrik (Dylan Ubeda) and Saint Paris (Florent Bayle) had everything under control in their last victories.

Kick-off in Enghien

Enghien, Friday 11 March: The Enghien summer track kicks off its season today with a seven-race programme. Among the higher-value tests is the Prix Quick Williams (3rd race/20.15pm/44,000 euros/2150m). The yearling comparison between five- and six-year-olds gathers 16 European horses at the start.

The Austrian Derby winner Diamant Venus (Wolfgang Ruth) is making another attempt to gain a foothold in France, which he has failed to do in three appearances so far. Last year he saw the `red card` here and in January he did not get beyond twelfth place in Vincennes. An interesting guest from Holland is Jank Summerland, trained and driven by Hugo Langeweg. Although he did not find his way smoothly around the course in his recent appearance in Paris, he finished a very good fourth here in the summer. Italian hopes rest on Boccadamo (Eric Raffin), whose winning streak will be put to the test. Blue Eyes Bar (Matthieu Abrivard) won a `D` race on New Year`s Eve as a big outsider against, among others, the chanceless Heaven Quick (Adrien Lamy) and Howdy Quick (Gabriele Gelormini), who showed up superiorly one tier below eight days ago. Amour del Ronco (Alexandre Abrivard) is sufficiently recommended by his third place in February ahead of Ariel Ferm (Francois Lagadeuc).

The Revenant in the Prix Altipan

Saint-Cloud, Wednesday 10 March: With a Listed double and seven other races, the first event of the season takes place today in Saint-Cloud.

Eight stallions/geldings will compete in the Prix Altipan (3rd race/15.00/52.000 Euro/1600 m) and rehearse for the Prix Edmond Blanc (Group 3), which will be decided here in April. The Revenant (Christophe Soumillon) has the semi-classic firmly in his sights. Last year, the 2019 Altipan winner finished third and later came in fourth in the Prix du Muguet (Group 2). The Revenant scored his biggest at Ascot when winning the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Group 1). Bellharbour Music (Ioritz Mendizabal) ran decently in the Prix Saonois (Listed race). Before the break, the four-year-old won the Prix Daphnis (Group 3) against, among others, Colosseo (Fabio Branca), who had taken a sensational place of honour in the Poule d`Essai des Poulains (Group 1). In the Prix Jean Prat (Group 1), the Bietolini protégé finished behind Midtown (Mickael Barzalona), who last narrowly failed in the Prix Tantieme (List race), but was able to leave Lupo Nero (Augustin Madamt) behind.

The Prix Rose de Mai (4th race/15.35 h/55,000 Euro/2000 m) is aimed at three-year-old mares. The Andre Fabre-trained Agave (Olivier Peslier) and Anne-Sophie Crombez` Peshmerga (Tony Piccone) were convincing all along the line in their debut victories and should play a supporting role. Fabre`s second colour Lerma (Mickael Barzalona), Gizala (Hugo Besnier), Anne de Cleves (Christophe Soumillon) celebrated their latest hits on the sand track at Chantilly and are also in contention for a top finish. Ondulee (Maxime Guyon) put in her maiden in Cagnes-sur-Mer and, like Style Beauty (Cristian Demuro) who ran strongly in Bordeaux, should not be missing from any consideration.

Start of the Grand National du Trot

Amiens, Wednesday 9 March: The Hippodrome d`Amiens will host the first leg of the French provincial circuit Grand National du Trot (1st race/14.00/90.000 Euro/2900 m) today. A total of 14 races are scheduled and then in Vincennes the best on points will compete for the big money in the `Clôture`.

The opening winner could be Favori de l`Iton (Eric Raffin), although the seven-year-old`s form is anything but inviting. The tough races in Vincennes should have strengthened him. Voila de Muze (Franck Ouvrie) has to cope with an allowance. The eight-year-old was seen in the Prix de Cornulier (Group 1) this year, but failed to gallop. Before that, he was an excellent second in a `B` race. Falco d`Havaroche (Gabriele Gelormini) is one of the most in-form horses in the field. Two wins and an honourable mention at the last three appearances clearly speak for the seven-year-old. Divine Monceau (Francois Lagadeuc) confirmed his previous second place with handicap in Agen-Le Passage. A year ago, he won in a heady field and Farah des Caux (David Thomain) also won a `C` race on 30 December against Flaya Kalouma (Gabriel Angel Pou Pou) and Flamme Vive (Franck Nivard). De la Cheneviere (Francois Lecanu) must not be judged by her last two races, she is capable of surprise.

Three-year-olds in the Prix Maurice Caillault

Chantilly, Tuesday, 8 March: The highlight of today`s eight-race card in Chantilly is the Prix Maurice Caillault (5th race/16.10 pm/55,000 Euro/1800 m). The Listed race is aimed exclusively at three-year-old horses. Five of the eight participants won their last start.

Cilantro (Olivier Peslier) had everything under control on the sand track in Cagnes-sur-Mer and took three lengths off his nearest pursuers. Fighter In The Win (Ioritz Mendizabal) also won as expected in the handicap on the Riviera. Mr Coalville (Christophe Soumillon) triumphed in Deauville to record his third score on his fourth French appearance. At the same venue, Machete (Stephane Pasquier) won his first race, leaving 13 opponents behind. Implementation (Mickael Barzalona) is track winner from 12 February. Gemmyo (Thomas Trullier) and User Kindly (Cristian Demuro) are proven dirt horses, while Saramouche (Maxime Guyon), the only mare in the field, is running on sand for the first time. The latter took an honourable place at Listed level in November.

Class field in the Prix Juigne

Auteuil, Sunday 6 March: The new season in Auteuil is only a few days old and already the next event follows with the Group 3 and over hurdles Prix Juigne (7th race/17.35/120.000 Euro/3600 m) taking centre stage.

In the eight-strong field, all candidates except Berjou (Nathalie Desoutter) are competing for the first time this year. The protégé of David Windrif made his seasonal debut in Pau and promptly won the Grande Course de Haies (Listed race) as an outsider. Two horses with good chances are Theleme (Pierre Dubourg) and Hermes Baie (Bertrand Lestrade), who are among the protagonists in the vintage. The latter won two Group 2 races here in late summer, each against Theleme, who before the break, favoured by Hermes Baie`s retirement, pinned the Prix Renaud du Vivier (Group 1) and a year before that the Grande Course de Haies des 3 Ans (Group 1) to his banner. Porto Pollo (Gaetan Masure) and Gex (James Reveley) ended last year with two wins apiece and are as highly rated as Belle Promesse (Theo Chevillard) and Colbert du Berlais (Ludovic Philipperon), who finished second in their most recent appearances. Galop Marin (Morgan Regairaz), who stands above the field by win total, is recommended by his November triumph in the Grand Prix d`Automne (Group 1).

Nepalo right back in Dortmund?

Dortmund, Sunday, 06 March 2022: It is a firm cornerstone of the winter programme, even though most gallop enthusiasts in Germany are already looking forward to the grass track races, but first up on Sunday is the penultimate day of racing in the 2021/22 winter on Dortmund`s sand course. Seven tests will be on offer between 11:20am and 2:25pm, with Races 1 to 5 also part of the PMU line-up.

The centre of attention is an Equalisation III over 1,800 metres. Nepalo (A. v. Troost) left a very strong impression here and is perhaps again possible right at the front. Furthermore, Koffi Star (S. Biessey) could give the Hamburg coffee king Albert Darboven a hit. New Day (J. Bojko) does not have to stop at the recent success.

The quadruple bet with a guaranteed sum of 10,000 Euros will be offered in the 5th race (Equalisation IV, 2,500 m). Maybe Morning Love (N. Cronauer) will score the third coup in a row here.

Naab and Zerostress with chances

Deauville, Friday, 4 March: Eight races will take place today on the sand track in Deauville. One of the better tests is the Prix de Saint-Julien-le-Faucon (3rd race/14.50 h/18,000 Euro/1300 m).

Eight horses are in the line-up, including Naab (Maxime Guyon), trained by Hans Blume. After a break of several months, the Siyouni son is back in racing action. He has already celebrated numerous successes in France and most of them were on this track. Sascha Smrczek saddled Zerostress (Theo Bachelot), who finished second here three times in a row. At his most recent appearance, the gelding competed as the top favourite and only just failed, but kept the pleasantly surprising Euryale (Aurelien Lemaitre) clearly at bay. Red Torch (Leon Wolff) grabbed a sale race at Riviera and is favourably in the running this time with weight allowance. Bardo (Simon Planque) will also find plenty of supporters as a fresh winner and with a favourable mark. Mubaalegh (Tony Piccone) ran at an upmarket level last year. Judging by his fifth place in the Prix du Gros-Chêne (Group 2), the way to victory leads through the Toux protégé. Ventura Vision (Jacky Nicoleau) showed an approach and is capable of a surprise.

I-year-olds in the Prix Vindex

Paris-Vincennes, Thursday, 3 March: The introductory Group 3 Prix Vindex (1st race/13.50pm/90,000 Euros/2700m) at Vincennes today is aimed at four-year-olds of domestic origin with a maximum bank balance of 175,000 Euros.

Intouchable (Matthieu Abrivard), who has always finished in a honoured place in the current meeting and is due for victory, will find a suitable task. Inmarosa (Leo Abrivard) also has the best chances. The four-year-old currently won the Prix d`Avignon (Group 3) very confidently against If I Tell You (Jean-Michel Bazire) and Intouchable. In her most recent appearance in the Prix d`Orthez (Group 3) she lost honourably and close behind Instinct d`Am (Gabriele Gelormini) was stuck with reserves. The latter has seen quite different opponents and meets it much easier today. Inexess Bleu (Alexandre Abrivard) would have won the Prix de Mansle (Group 3) by a hair, but in the end it was enough for silver ahead of If I Tell You and Iron Meslois (Alexis Collette), who is recommended by his triumph in the Prix Bellino II (Group 3) against Intouchable, Ikacou des Cinty (Pierre-Yves Verva) and Inmarosa.

Road to the Kentucky Derby at Kempton

Kempton, Wednesday, 2 March: The all-weather track at Kempton today hosts the `Road to the Kentucky Derby` racing series (5th race/20.00pm/60,000 pounds/1609m). There is a points classification (I. 20 p., II. 8 p., III. 4 p., IV. 2 p.) for the classic on 7 May in the USA, which is endowed with three million euros.

Trainer Charlie Appleby won the match last year for Godolphin with Highland Avenue and this time the imposing Blue Trail (James Doyle) at Southwell could succeed him. To beat is Harrow (David Probert), who ran magnificently last year, winning three in a row and finishing third in the Tattersalls Stakes (Group 3) most recently. Grenoble (Tom Marquand) showed good promise as a two-year-old. After an unsuccessful attempt at Group 3 level, the Haggas protégé moved to the break. Find (David Egan) also starts for the first time this year and is expected by the trade press to be far in front. Wyvern (Marco Ghiani), on the other hand, has already built up fitness in two starts in January.