Wennemar before next triumph

Compiegne, Wednesday, 31 August: Today`s eight-race event in Compiegne features trainer Waldemar Hickst, who has a candidate to win the Prix de la Forêt de Retz (4th race/15.35 h/28,000 Euro/2800 m) with Wennemar (Cristian Demuro).

In Clairefontaine, the Soldier Hollow son was successful at the first attempt, now he has to hold his own against a number of form horses. Omanense (Mickael Barzalona) showed her class in the first half of the year. The Fabre mare took a short break and will compete after a strike result in Vichy promoted. Happy Harry (Tony Piccone), Promeneur (Stephane Pasquier) and Mappatassie (Hugo Journiac) each won easily in Deauville and Clairefontaine respectively and are expected to finish in the top positions, as is Courtesy Call (Clement Lecoeuvre), who finished a strong third recently. La Fille du Sud (Theo Bachelot) already defeated Happy Harry in Vichy. Princesse d`Or (Gerald Mosse) came to a safe victory in the province.

Future Race in Baden-Baden with the Stars of Tomorrow

Baden-Baden, Wednesday, 31 August: The third day of the Great Week in Baden-Baden brings with it the 149th Future Race (Group III, 55,000 Euros, 1,400 m), one of the most important competitions for two-year-old horses.

Several horses that showed up big right at the first start are first choice, like Bodyman (M. Seidl), who won in France, the Fährhoferin Habana (E. Pedroza) or See Paris (M. Cadeddu), who secured the highly endowed Cologne auction race.

The rest of the card is also a challenge. In the prize of the BBAG yearling auction (52,000 Euros, 2,400 m) for three-year-old horses, Tünnes (B. Murzabayev), a former Derby hopeful, returns.

The Baden-Baden Cup (list race, 25,000 Euros, 1,800 m) is reserved for mares. With 14 horses, the line-up could hardly be better. With Nano Nagle (A. Madamet), there is even a Godolphin horse at the start.

Eleven races will be held between 11:35 am and 5:35 pm. The first four tests are also part of the PMU programme in France. The four-race bet with guaranteed payouts of 20,000 euros and two times 10,000 euros will be offered three times.

Prix d`Antibes with hopeful three-year-olds

Paris-Vincennes, Monday, 29 August: The new week begins on the Plateau de Gravelle with an exciting eight-race programme. The €61,000 Prix d`Antibes (5th race/16.10/2700m) appeals to three-year-old horses who have not exceeded a winning total of €55,000.

Jenny de Joudes (Alain Laurent) fits the bill perfectly. The mare earned good money last time in Enghien as second, before that she stayed within her possibilities in the Prix Ozo (Group 2) on rank five. Judith Reine (Matthieu Abribvard) exceeded expectations a good three lengths behind her as the giant outsider, after which nothing went right in four more appearances. Jasmin Precieux (Alexis Collette) and Just A Boy d`Alesa (Yoann Lebourgeois) fought out a `C` race here in June. The former ran in the Province afterwards and finished second to Jalimede. The Raimond protégé finished close behind the runners-up and ahead of Just You And Me (Gabriele Gelormini) in Enghien a month ago. Jingle Delo (Anthony Barrier) already tried his hand at classic level in the Prix Albert Viel (Group 1), but failed, as so often, because of a mistake. The stallion does not lack running ability. Jolie Star (Julien Dubois), who is used to winning, has a demanding task here, but with a further improvement she could stay on the road to success.

Earl Simon to open in Wolvega

Wolvega, Sunday 28 August: Great sport will be on offer today at Wolvega, where the inaugural Steven Bijkerk Grand Prix (1st race/15.35/50,000 Euro/2600m) attracts top French class. Earl Simon (Franck Ouvrie), currently victorious in the Kymi Grand Prix (Group 1), once again faces a solvable task. Feydeau Seven (Jos Verbeeck), who attracted attention during the preparation for the Prix d`Amérique this year, and Express Jet (Thomas Panschow) are other candidates with good chances.

In the TCT Derby (9th race/19.50/110,000 Euro/2100 m), nine three-year-olds will come to the course. Y Not Diamant (Robin Bakker) impressed in the preparation as a superior winner ahead of Muscle Rex (Michel Rothengatter), Sunrise (Adrian Kolgjini), Magnum Stone (Jaap Van Rijn) and Velten Von Steven (Jouni Nummi). Nevertheless, Paul Hagoort`s gelding does not face an easy task, because Gio Cash (Dion Tesselaar), who comes from difficult tasks, will demand everything from him. Y Not Diamant will be supported by Monastery Boko (Michel Brouwer) and Pearl Vrijthout (Andre Bakker), who are expected to spring a surprise.

Stay Foolish rehearses in the Grand Prix de Deauville

Deauville, Sunday, 28 August: At the Hippodrome La-Touques, the summer meeting ends today with a ten-race programme. The focus is on the Grand Prix de Deauville (4th race/15.55 h/200,000 Euro/2500 m), a Group 2 race with five participants.

Here Botanik (Mickael Barzalona) and Glycon (Jean-Bertrand Eyquem), who won the Prix de Reux (Group 3), will meet again. The latter finished third in the Grand Prix de Chantilly (Group 2) ahead of Fenelon (Stephane Pasquier), who has two wins to his name this season. Stay Foolish (Cristian Demuro), who is worth more than four million Euros, has to be beaten. This year, he won the Dubai Gold Cup (Group 2) in Meydan, but later did not finish above midfield at Group 1 level in his home country. Media Storm (Valentin Seguy) runs reliably to the front in France. Three weeks ago, he was third on the list here.

Golden Whip the class event on day two in Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden, Sunday, 28 August: Day two at the Great Week in Baden-Baden-Iffezheim with a highlight of a very special kind - the 152nd Casino Baden-Baden Goldene Peitsche (Group III, 55,000 Euros, 1,200 m), the most important sprint in the country.

In an international field of eleven, Danelo (E. Pedroza) could keep the victory in the country, as his score in Hamburg was impressive. But Namos (W. Panov) could also make a comeback here after 2020. Of the guests, Dubawi Legend (R. Coakley) and Tippy Toes (F. Norton) from England are particularly appealing. The former was even second in the Dewhurst Stakes at the highest level in 2021 and should be in the favourite role.

In all, the programme includes nine races between 1.40pm and 6.25pm, including the Darley BBAG Auction Race (€102,500, 1,200m), a payday for owners of two-year-old fillies. Things look favourable for Waldeza (R. Piechulek), who has already been successful twice.

The four-horse bet with a guaranteed payout of 20,000 Euros is offered in the 5th race (Compensation III, 1,400 m). 10,000 Euros can be won in the 9th race (Equalisation IV, 2,400 m).

Lots on offer in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 27 August: Big races are up for decision today in Vincennes. The Prix Phact (4th race/15.32 h/80,000 Euro/2175 m), in which three-year-old saddle trotters will be addressed, will kick off. After two attempts in front of the sulky, Jelyson (Yoann Lebourgeois) will compete again in his special discipline. The winner of the Prix d`Essai (Group 1) against Jorgos de Guez (Benjamin Rochard), Junon (Eric Raffin) and Jab de Mye (Christopher Corbineau), among others, will be challenged by Jason du Conroy (Nathalie Henry), who had a superior victory over Judy Blue Eyes (Paul Philippe PLoquin) here in June.

The Yearling Cup 2022 (6th race/16.45 h/150,000 Euro/2700 m) is aimed at the same age group. Eleven sulky cracks will compete in the Group 3 test. Jazzy Perrine (Eric Raffin) stands out by class. The Malmqvist protégé won twice at second level in May and currently he finished third in the Prix Reine du Corta (Group 2). Justin Bold (Mathieu Mottier ) comes from lower classes but, like Jaguar Marancourt (Franck Nivard) who ran well in the Prix Kalmia (Group 2), is expected to be in the front-runners.

Five- to seven-year-old horses will contest the Prix de Provence (7th race/17.22pm/90,000 Euro/2700m). Fakir de Mahey (Mathieu Mottier) pleases with his fresh success in the Grand National du Trot (Group 3), but Free Man (Alexandre Abrivard), who ran best in Les Sables-d`Olonne, as well as Belker (Jean-Michel Bazire), Fly Speed (Jean-Philippe Monclin) and Grand Art (Franck Nivard) will give the seven-year-old nothing.

Finally, the older saddle trotters are under order in the Prix Camille Lepecq (8th race/17.57 h/120,000 Euro/2175 m). With Freeman de Houelle (Eric Raffin) and Chalimar de Guez (Jean-Yann Ricart), two horses of immense form will meet, who are not to be missed in the front race. Carly (Mathieu Mottier) and Diamant de Treabat (Clement Frecelle) are also in no way inferior to the first two and should not be missing from any bet.

Etonnant vs. Vivid Wise As

Cagnes-sur-Mer, Saturday, 27 August: Following on from Paris-Vincennes, a sporting event of the highest calibre will take place in Cagnes-sur-Mer. At the centre of the action is the Grand Prix du Département des Alpes-Maritimes (4th race/20.10pm/180,000 euros/1609m), in which the eternal duel between Vivid Wise As (Matthieu Abrivard) and Etonnant (Anthony Barrier) will be renewed.

The two eight-year-olds were last under order in the Grand Prix de Wallonie (Group 1) and, as expected, settled the match between them, as they did here in the Grand Critérium de Vitesse (Group 1). The Italian was ahead in the Prix de l`Atlantique (Group 1) and Etonnant had to settle for silver ahead of Delia du Pommereux (David Thomain). The mare always reliably runs out her ability, but it is rarely enough to win. Bleff Dipa (Roberto Vecchione) was third in the Prix de Washington (group 2) and could be a threat to the favourites. Ecureuil Jenilou (Gwenn Junod) is in top form, but the gelding hasn`t had such a hard time for a long time.

Preis der Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe opens the Great Week

Baden-Baden, Saturday, 27 August: The start of the Big Week 2022 in Baden-Baden has it all, because already on Saturday, the first of the five great days in Iffezheim, a group race will be held - the 67th Prize of the Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe (Group III, 55,000 Euros, 2,000 m).

Even though only five horses are competing, the quality is pleasing: Derby runner-up Schwarzer Peter (A. Starke) will naturally find a lot of confidence. Mansour (M. Cadeddu) only has to set the third place from the Spring Grand Prix here. Queroyal (E. Pedroza) is also already profiled as a group winner here. Lord Charming (B. Murzabayev) has been in front several times at this level.

The other card also knows how to please. In the 80th Anniversary Alexa Gräfin zu Solms Cup (Listed race, 25,000 Euros, 2,800 m) it looks favourable for Nubius (B. Murzabayev), who would have deserved a success long ago. Alerta Roja (L. Morris) and the serial winner Akua` rius (R. Piechulek) are certainly strong opponents.

The foursome bet is offered twice. 20,000 Euros are up for grabs in the 5th race (Equalisation III, 1,800 m). 10,000 Euros beckon in the 8th race (Equalisation IV, 2,000 m). Eight races will be run between 1:20 pm and 5:25 pm.

Interesting map in Clairefontaine

Clairefontaine, Friday 26 August: Nine races are on the programme today in Clairefontaine from 13.40. In the three-year-old Prix Molvedo, run as Prix Darty Deauville (2nd race/14.15pm/35,000 euros/2200m), two mares will meet five stallions/geldings.

Greym (Mickael Barzalona) and Style Beauty (Cristian Demuro) tried in the Prix de Royaumont (Group 3) without success, but meet it easier this time and are expected far in front. Selwan (Faleh Nasser Bughenaim), who had no chance in the Prix Hocquart (Group 2), should also have better chances. In his most recent appearance in Saint-Cloud in the handicap, he finished behind Hypotenus (Maxime Guyon), who already has two wins to his name this year. Havana Silk (Hugo Besnier) is consistently running up front, he should manage a win soon, which cannot be said for Jaguar Fleury (Ebbe Verhestraeten).

Alkuin with a chance in the Quinté handicap

Deauville, Thursday 25 August: The summer meeting in Deauville is drawing to a close. Eight races will be run in today`s third last event. In the Handicap de la Manche (7th race/20.15 h/50.000 Euro/3200 m) Waldemar Hickst saddles Alkuin (Eddy Hardouin), who was superiorly victorious in Saint-Cloud, against 13 competitors with first chances.

He meets Lettyt Storm (Mickael Barzalona) again, who finished well behind him in fourth place and later won in Les Sables-d`Olonne. Sea Dreamin (Simon Planque), who ran in the Prix Vicomtesse Vigier (Group 2), is also among the closest favourites. At his most recent appearance in Compiegne, the four-year-old came in clear second ahead of Barbadin (Hugo Journiac) and Smile Makers (Marie Velon). The latter finished third in Clairefontaine just under three weeks ago ahead of Or Gris (Maxime Guyon) and Blue Swan (Gregory Benoist), who are also conceivable in the front runners. Dojo (Stephane Pasquier) produced a strong performance in the Grand Handicap de Pâques (Classe 1) to finish third ahead of Paper Trophy (Tony Piccone), but has not been on the run-off since May. Just Light (Christopher Grosbois) did well in Dieppe well ahead of Masterpower (Aurelien Lemaitre), who pleases with a favourable mark.

Kennedy back on the winning track?

Paris-Vincennes, Wednesday, 24 August: Full fields guarantee excitement and worthwhile odds today in Vincennes. The Prix de Beaune (7th race/20.15 pm/65,000 euros/2700 m) appeals to seven-year-old and older EU horses with a maximum account balance of 325,000 euros.

A similar match was decided here on 17 June and the winner was Kennedy (Gabriele Gelormini) from the quarters of Eric Bondo, who has already guided the seven-year-old to six victories this year, four of them at Vincennes. The recent strike result in the Aby Stora Pris (Group 1) should not be chalked up too harshly to the Scandinavian. Heading Reference (Jean-Michel Bazire) held on splendidly in the Prix Eudora (Course C) half a length behind Kennedy and Fifty Five Bond (Christophe Martens) also pleased when fourth behind the top duo. The latter won as expected in Cagnes-sur-Mer against Duc du Lupin (Matthieu Abrivard), who impressively continued his upward trend in Aix-les-Bains with two honours. Ingo (Alexandre Abrivard) ended the first half of the year with two wins. It remains to be seen whether Christoffer Eriksson`s protégé, who is used to success, will be at one hundred right away. Fee de Ranchval (Eric Raffin) fought at the front in Enghien and Esperanzo (Matthieu Mottier) also took two silver medals.

German chances in the two-year-olds

Deauville, Tuesday, 23 August: Eight races are on the programme in Deauville today. In the two-year-old Prix des Roches Noires (2nd race/14.23 pm/34,000 Euro/1500 m), Hegrina (Frida Valle Skar), trained by Uwe Schwinn for the De Luxe stable, will compete against six rivals.

It remains to be seen whether the mare, who has run without any success in two starts, will be able to do better this time. Mandega (Hugo Journiac), who also runs for German interests, has already won twice in his eleven-start career. Twelve days ago, the stallion, trained by Nicolas Caullery, managed a full success at high odds here. Christophe Ferland`s Shalromy (Maxime Guyon) made his debut at the same venue and achieved a respectable place of honour straight away. Training companion Zara Blues (Gregor Benoist) tried her hand at Group 3 level after a win, but did not get beyond last place. Jugando (Christophe Soumillon), after two wins in a row, suffered a tough defeat here at advanced level, which should not be chalked up too harshly to the Montfort protégé. Anoday (Rosario Mangione) and Jiepie`s Melody (Sebastien Maillot) have shown little of use so far.

List handicap to finish

Clairefontaine, Monday 22 August: To conclude today`s eight-race card at Clairefontaine, the Grand Steeple-Chase - Ville de Deauville (8th race/18.00/95,000 Euro/4500 m) is up for decision. The Listed Handicap runs over the chase course and gathers 14 participants at the start.

Risk du Brizais (Pierre Dubourg) has won three of his last five starts. Fifteen days ago, he won superiorly over today`s course. The five-year-old faces strong competition like Raffles Classic (Clement Lefebvre), who could convince here twice. In June, the gelding fought his way to victory against Derby Dete (Alban Desvaux) and Dentor des Obeaux (Olivier Jouin). The latter he kept at a distance again in the fight for silver. Hispanic Moon (Kevin Nabet) pleased in fourth place behind him. King Elvis (Adrien Fouchet) and Araucarias (Bertrand Lestrade) showed their good form currently in Dieppe, where they could be seen behind the top at list level. The former finished a strong second to Calinight (Damien Mescam), who has already won three races this year, in a similar fixture on 28 July.

Six guests against three Germans in Düsseldorf highlight

Düsseldorf, Sunday, 21 August: Düsseldorf will be the venue for one of the Listed races for mares on Sunday within the nine races between 10:50 am and 3:30 pm (the first six races will also be shown in France), when 22,500 Euros will be distributed as prize money in the Great Sparkasse Family Cup (Listed race, 1,400 m) for the three-year-old and older horse ladies.

While the domestic guest mares make themselves very scarce with three candidates, the guests dominate with six horses from abroad. Especially the French-based trainer Satoshi Kobayashi seems to be well prepared with the Hanoverian List winner Sentimental Mambo (P. Bazire) and Chic Cherie (T. Ono), who also already ran strongly at this level. Artemia (A. Starke), Nandina (M. Casamento) and Rosenart (M. Seidl) are the only local representatives.

In the Equalisation II over the mile, the Hoppegarten winner Lacento (J. Bojko) seems to be the first choice again.

Prix Morny + Prix Jean Romanet in focus

Deauville, Sunday, August 21: Great sport comes once again today from Deauville, where the Prix Morny (2nd race/14.33 hrs/350,000 euros/1200 m) will decide the first Group 1 race. All of the five two-year-old participants are prepared abroad. Persian Force (Frankie Dettori), from Richard Hannon`s quarters, enters as the favorite after taking honors in the Phoenix Stakes (Group 1). The Aidan O`Brien-trained Blackbeard (Ryan Moore) and The Antarctic (Ioritz Mendizabal) recently distinguished themselves in the Prix Robert Papin (Group 2) in the first two places. The latter came in well behind the winning The Ridler (Christophe Soumillon) in the Norfolk Stakes (Group 2). Manhattan Jungle (Tony Piccone) was the only mare in the field to finish second when The Antarctic won the Prix de Cabourg (Group 3).

The four-year-old and older mares will contest the Prix Jean Romanet (4th race/15.50pm/250,000 euros/2000m). Andre Fabre`s Burgarita (Maxime Guyon) is in line to win after four honors in a row. She must be particularly wary of Aristia (Sean Levey), who caused a fistful of surprises in the Nassau (Group 1) when she finished second. At York, the Hannon mare finished second again and behind her ended Ville de Grace (Ryan Moore), who before that battled for silver in the Dahlia Stakes (Group 2) with Ebaiyra (Christophe Soumillon). Verry Elleegant (Frankie Dettori) brought strong form from Australia.

Vincennes reports back

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday, 20 August: The summer break ends today in Paris-Vincennes, where six of the eight tests will be decided at group level. Two races each for three- and four-year-olds, separated by sex, frame the Prix Louis Jariel (6th race/16.43pm/120,000 euros/2175m), which is aimed at the 2017-born crop.

Hohneck (Francois Lagadeuc), who now has an account balance of over one million euros, will start as the clear favourite. Two wins in a row speak clearly in favour of Philippe Allaire`s protégé, but Hooker Berry (Nicolas Bazire) could prove to be an unpleasant opponent, especially as he had already defeated his opponent several times. Hooker Berry`s trainer Jean-Michel Bazire prefers to ride Heraut d`Armes, who ran very well in Enghien in the Prix de la Chaussee d`Antin (Group 3) when second to Hinden (Franck Nivard). In La Capelle, Hussard du Landret (Benoit Robin) cut a good figure behind Hohneck. Hokkaido Jiel (David Thomain) surprised in the Prix Jean Le Gonidec (Group 2) behind today`s favourite.

Strong guests in the Prix de la Nonette

Deauville, Saturday 20 August: Four group races grace today`s event at Deuville. The first Group 2 category fixture addresses the three-year-old fillies in the Prix de la Nonette (4th race/15.50/130,000 Euro/2000m).

A guest victory seems possible as William Haggas and Aidan O`Brien are in with a chance with Sea Silk Road (Mickael Barzalona) and History (Ioritz Mendizabal), placed in the Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2). Jessica Harrington also fancies a top result with Trevaunance (Tony Piccone), who won the Prix de Psyche (Group 3) against Mqse de Sevigne (Maxime Guyon). Rosacea (Christophe Soumillon) and Agave (Olivier Peslier) fell behind the two fastest in the Prix de Diane (Group 1). In Time (Theo Bachelot) scored two wins in smaller tasks. Perle Rouge (Eddy Hardouin) took silver at list level in Vichy.

York Final

York, Saturday, 20 August: With a seven-race card the Ebor Meeting will be concluded today in York. The best match of the day is the City of York Stakes (3rd race/16.00/400,000 pounds/1408 m), which counts as Group 2.

Here the duel from Goodwood between Sandrine (David Probert) and Kinross (Frankie Dettori) will be renewed. Only a `short head` separated them in the Lennox Stakes (Group 2), so a reversal of form is not out of the question. Sacred (Tom Marquand) finished a close length behind in fifth in the same fixture and should give the first two a run for their money. Rohaan (Adam Kirby) was unfortunate to lose in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (Group 1). A top finish is within the realms of possibility for the Evans protégé, as it is for Al Suhail (William Buick), who has been off since Meydan, and Brad The Brief (David Egan), who has yet to lose a race under new management. Jumby (Jim Crowley) becomes interesting as winner of the Hungerford Stakes (Group 2).

Promising handicap the train number at Raffelberg

Mülheim, Saturday, 20 August: Mülheim will be the venue for several more high-speed races this year, when, as is well known, there is always an attractive winter programme on grass at Raffelberg. The next event is scheduled for Saturday with eight races between 2 pm and 5.30 pm.

The drawing card will be a 2,000-metre Equaliser II. An absolute track specialist is Employer (A. Starke), who is particularly pleasing in the penultimate performance. Amaranto (L. Wolff) acts very reliably and also announces good possibilities.

The youngsters also do the honours. Happy Saturday (J. Bojko) and Mythos (A. Starke) are two of the promising newcomers. Mister Hollow (L. Wolff), who had a much harder time in an auction race, seems to be well recommended.

10,000 Euros will be paid out in the four-horse bet of the 7th race (Equalisation III, 1,300 m). Auerbach (W. Panov) and Score (M. Cadeddu) are potential reserve horses.

Opening day 2022 in Halle

Halle, Friday, 19 August: In earlier times, it was the Saale floods that repeatedly caused problems at the racecourse in Halle. Later, wild boar damage thwarted races here. But on Friday there will now be the 2022 premiere, it is the first of two dates.

Six races will be run here between 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and of course everything is in the spirit of grassroots sport. One is the sole organiser in Germany. In the 2,200 metre race for the Derby age group, First Smiling (R. Piechulek) was hardly to make the long journey from Munich without a background. The debut was good. In the counterpart over 1,500 metres, Saldenlady (M. Pecheur) truly deserved a hit.

Mares with good chances in the Nunthorpe Stakes

York, Friday 19 August: The sporting standard remains high on the third day of the Ebor Festival at York. The classic Nunthorpe Stakes (4th race/16.35/500,000 pounds/1006m) appeals to 15 sprinters.

Among them is last year`s winner Winter Power (David Allan), but she is only one of the outsiders after a lean seasonal record. The younger participants are favoured by the trade press. Royal Aclaim (Andrea Atzeni), undefeated in three starts so far, is just as likely to win as the two-year-old The Platinum Queen (Hollie Doyle), who recently gave a taste of her extraordinary ability at Goodwood. Highfield Princess (Jason Hart) was also successful in the Prix Maurice de Gheest (Group 1). Together with Flotus (Silvestre de Sousa) and Khaadem (Ryan Moore), who triumphed at Group 3 and 2 level respectively, she is one of the closest favourites. Clarendon House (Ray Dawson) and Emaraaty Ana (Kevin Stott) are no match for their recent performances and are in contention for the surprise.

In the Lonsdale Cup (2nd race/15.25/250,000 pounds/3270m) the `eternal duel` between Stradivarius (Andrea Atzeni) and Trueshan (Hollie Doyle) will be renewed. In the two-year-olds in the Gimcrack Stakes (3rd race/16.00/250,000 pounds/1200m), the success of Royal Scotsman (Jim Crowley) in the Richmond Stakes (Group 2) comes under scrutiny. The still unbeaten Marshman (Clifford Lee), Noble Style (William Buick) and Clearpoint (Oisin Orr) are in the running.

Alpinista the favourite in the Yorkshire Oaks

York, Thursday 18 August: After a successful opening event at the Ebor Festival in York with Baaeed winning the International Stakes, day two follows today. The Yorkshire Oaks (4th race/16.35pm/533,750 pounds/2380m) takes centre stage of the seven races.

A year after Snowfall, Alpinista (Luke Morris), who has already caused a sensation in Germany, could succeed her. This year, the grey mare had a successful start to the season in Saint-Cloud, winning the Grand Prix of the same name (Group 1) against Mare Australis, among others. In order to stay on the winning track, Alpinista, for whom the `Arc de Triomphe is intended, has to pay attention first and foremost to La Petite Coco (W. Lee) and Tuesday (Ryan Moore). The former also won her only start of the season at the Curragh at classic level. The O`Brien mare, a year younger, won the English Mares` Derby (Group 1) but recently finished fourth in the Irish Derby (Group 1) with no chance. In the Irish Oaks (Group 1) Magical Lagoon (Shane Foley) showed her great class and won, as before in the Ribblesdale Stakes (Group 2), very safely. Lilac Road (Tom Marquand) sold strongly in the Nassau Stakes (Group 1) to finish third and, like Raclette (Olivier Peslier) who arrives from France with great form, is not ruled out for the surprise. In favour of Poptronic (Sam James) is the current List honours on this course.

Ebor Festival kicks off with Baaeed

York, Wednesday 17 August: The four-day Ebor Festival at York starts today with a seven-race programme. The International Stakes (4th race/16.35/1 million pounds/2060m) takes centre stage, but has to cope with a non-runner in the form of the German-bred Alenquer.

That does not shake the clear favourite position of Baaeed (Jim Crowley), who is still unbeaten after nine wins. William Haggas` charge, who recently performed well in the Sussex Stakes (Group 1), will be tested this time by Mishriff (James Doyle), who won last year`s fixture and is currently third behind Torquator Tasso in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (Group 1). Prior to that, the five-year-old battled to victory in the Eclipse Stakes (Group 1) and behind him finished just as close Native Trail (William Buick), who suffered the second defeat of his career after finishing second in the English 2000 Guineas. Sir Busker (Ben Curtis) and Dubai Honour (Tom Marquand) successfully rehearsed for today`s task in the York Stakes (Group 2) here but, like the well-classed High Definition (Ryan Moore), hit it too hard.

Enghien summer finale

Enghien, Wednesday 17 August: The summer meeting in Enghien ends today with the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (5th race/18.23/150,000 euros/2875 m), which takes centre stage and is part of Group 2.

Five of the ten participants met here in the Prix de Washington (Group 2). Galius (Yoann Lebourgeois), who narrowly failed in the Prix d`Amérique, once again had to make do with second place behind Hohneck, but remained clearly ahead against Dorgos de Guez (Nicolas Bazire), who ran well but ultimately had no chance, as well as Violetto Jet (Franck Nivard) and Heros de Fleur (Alexis Prat). The highly touted Elie de Beaufour (Jean-Michel Bazire) failed to gallop, but was better than Galius and Dorgos de Guez before that in the Prix Chambon P (Group 2). Diable de Vauvert (Tony Le Beller) crowned his career in the Winter Meeting by winning the Prix de Paris (Group 1). In his last appearance in the Prix Rene Balliere (Group 1), he finished fourth ahead of Galius. Callmethebreeze (Andrea Guzzinati) is trying his hand outside the year group and is aiming for a better premium.

The attraction of the year in Hoppegarten!

Hoppegarten, Sunday, 14 August: The Westminster 132nd Grand Prix of Berlin (Group I, 155,000 Euros, 2,400 m) on Sunday in Berlin-Hoppegarten will be the attraction of the year at the park track just outside the capital.

Northern Ruler (R. Piechulek) pleases after the great place of honour at his seasonal debut in the Hansa Prize, when he only had to tolerate Arc winner Torquator Tasso in front of him, but remained clearly ahead of Alter Adler (A. Starke), who was beaten below value. This time, the Iffezheim winning rider sits on the Nice Gallopers stable again. Virginia Storm (M. Cadeddu), third in the Fürstenberg race, had no chance of winning here. One can be curious about the three-year-olds. Nerik (B. Murzabayev) was fifth in the Derby and left Ardakan (C. Lecoeuvre) behind him. Very interesting, of course, are the following-named Assistent (T. Hammer-Hansen), who was particularly pleasing when fourth in the Derby, and the Godolphin representative Rebel`s Romance (J. Doyle), a fresh Group III winner. The jump is big for Nastaria (M. Lopez), who excelled in a Listed test in Dresden the previous week. The trifecta becomes very attractive with a guaranteed payout of 11,111 Euros.

But the other card of the ten races between 11:20 am and 4:30 pm (the first five races are also part of the PMU card in France) also has it all. In the Ittlingen Cup (Listed race, 25,000 euros, 1,200 m) there is an international field the likes of which has rarely been seen. The horses come from six different countries. Of the German horses, things look favourable for Waldersee (J. Bojko), who is well experienced in such competitions. However, he will have to deal with guests from various nations.

In the Hoppegarten Stayer Prize (Listed race, 25,000 Euros, 2,800 m), Nacido (A. de Vries), who returns to his beloved long distance after finishing second in the Fürstenberg race, seems to be the first choice.
11,111 Euros each are offered as a guaranteed payout in the quadruple bet of the 7th race (Equalisation III, 2,400 m) and in the 10th race (Equalisation III, 2,000 m).

Great start to the capital meeting of the year

Hoppegarten, Saturday, 13 August: Two days of top-class sport will be offered at the Berlin-Hoppegarten racecourse this weekend, where the 200th anniversary of local turf is already being celebrated on Saturday. There will be ten races between 10:50 am and 4 pm. Races 1 to 6 will also be shown in France via PMU.

In the centre of attention is the Anniversary Prize 200 Years of German Gallop (Listed race, 25,000 Euros, 1,800 m) for the ladies. Stella (A. Starke) can do what is required here. Nina`s Lob (A. de Vries) impressed on her debut. Guests from France, the Czech Republic and Poland are also competing.

The 2,000-metre Equaliser I is also impressive. The Conqueror (RM. Abik) is still on the way up. The four-race bet with a guaranteed payout of 11,111 euros each is offered in the 7th race (Equalisation III, 1,600 metres) and in the 10th race (Equalisation IV, 2,800 metres).

Friday Thirteen ahead of Angie again?

Clairefontaine, Friday, 12 August: The mixed racing day with six flat and three steeplechase races begins with the first start at 1.40 pm. The second race at 2.15pm is the Prix Groupe Tranchant, a €35,000 chase race offering the highest prize money on the day. Five horses are running. The winner is decided after 3,900 metres.

Two horses already met on this track at the beginning of July. Friday Thirteen (James Reveley) won by two and a half lengths ahead of Angie (Angelo Zuliani). While Angie has since taken a break, Friday Thirteen recently had to be stopped in a hurdle race. Nevertheless, the gelding again seems to be the better choice over the mare. Le Garlaban (Nicolas Gauffenic) has already won three hurdle races this year, including even one at List level in Compiegne. At his only appearance over the heavy chasing jumps, the gelding finished fifth in May. Since then he has taken a break. Mon Doudou (Erwan Bureller) is a fresh winner of a hurdle race in Chateaubriant. On the chasing track, the gelding won in Cagnes-sur-mer on Christmas Day. Isarak (Gwen Richard) has had nothing to show over hurdles so far. This is his first appearance in a hunter race.

Will Premiere Etoile manage the first win?

Deauville, Thursday, 11 August: A grassroots racing day, with the first start at 17.55. Eight races will be run until 10.07pm with five handicaps and three sales races. The latter are all endowed with 26,000 euros. Among them is the Prix du Chateau de Canon as the second race at 6.30 pm. Twelve horses will run over 1,900 metres.

First chances are to be discovered for Premiere Etoile to be ridden by Coralie Pacaut. The mare is saddled by Jean-Claude Rouget, who may well get his horse off the turf as a winner after the fifth lifetime start. Inishnee (Maxime Guyon) has already won twice this year. However, she did not have any chances in two Listed races recently. Here it is much easier. Pontet (Antonio Orani) still has relatively little racing experience, but he recently won in Lyon, which gives him every opportunity here. Law Supreme (Christophe Soumillon) had to tolerate the favourite Premiere Etoile in front of him in fourth place in July, but remains a final contender here. On Lockdown (Christopher Raimbault) has already proven himself in this class and would be anything but a surprise with a placing in the front. A place money would also be conceivable for Bougainvillier (Stephane Pasquier).

Omanense with small advantage

Vichy, Wednesday, 10 August: The first start is at 1.25 pm. The highest-paying gallop race is the Prix Charles de Veauce, with 22,000 euros up for grabs for the owners of the seven entrants. It is the third of eight races in the event at 2.35pm. The distance for the three-year-olds is over 2,000 metres.

A key race for the current competition is the Prix du Vert Galant in Longchamp in mid-June. Two horses already met at that time. There, the Andre Fabre-trained Omanense (Adrian Le Lay Martin) ran to fourth place, but was beaten by the winner by almost six lengths. About three lengths behind, Lorenzo de Medici (Christophe Soumillon) from the Botti stable finished sixth. The stallion won a race with this jockey in Deauville last year. Dereva (Lea Bails) has only made three starts in her life. Most recently, she found the winning track in Argentan and could thus become a fire hazard for Omanense and Lorenzo de Medici. Senor Pedro (Eddy Hardouin) can be called a track specialist. The stallion made his most recent appearance in Vichy a sure win, which also applies to Wild Sweetheart (Sebastien Maillot), both of whom are now competing with the best references. Talismania (Guillaume Guedj-Gay) won in Aix-les-bains three weeks ago on his second start of life, while Milad`id (Ambre Molins) is making his first run.

The Charmer in focus despite maximum weight

Deauville, Tuesday, 9 August: Arabian thoroughbreds will compete in two of the eight races in Deauville. The other six tests belong to the "English" with the Quinté starting at 1.48 pm, at the end of the racing day at 6 pm. This Prix de Bayeux runs over 1,600 metres, is endowed with 50,000 euros and is quantitatively strong with 16 participants.

Marius Falk Weißmeier brings Be My Day (Aurelien Lemaitre) to the course as the clear outsider. Others are favourites, such as The Charmer, trained by Mikel Delzangles, despite his maximum weight of 60 kilos. In his last five appearances, the gelding to be ridden by Ioritz Medizabal was always in the top three in the final. Highbari (Fabrice Veron), whose consistency is also convincing and who is ideally placed in this class, will also be competing in top form. Still little tested is Easy Amused (Mickael Barzalona), who has no experience in Quinté races. According to impressions so far, she has all the potential. After three second places in a row, Harper (Gerald Mossé) would be overdue for a win. Ascot Angel`s (Christophe Soumillon) last win was well over a year ago, but this gelding was also second twice in Quinté races last time. Now it is time to bridge a small break. Alba Power (Stéphane Pasquier) still has to prove himself in this class, but he seems to be good enough for a surprise. San Cristobal (Ronan Thomas) should be able to improve on the last two forms. Goldino Bello (Tony Piccone) took second place in this race last year.

The Charmer sous les feux de la rampe malgré son poids maximum

Deauville, mardi 9 août : les pur-sang arabes s`affronteront à Deauville dans deux des huit courses. Les six autres épreuves appartiennent aux "Anglais" à partir de 13h48 avec le Quinté, à la fin de la journée de courses à 18h. Ce Prix de Bayeux se déroule sur 1.600 mètres, est doté de 50.000 euros et est quantitativement très relevé avec 16 participants.

Marius Falk Weißmeier présente Be My Day (Aurelien Lemaitre) comme un outsider évident. Les favoris sont d`autres, comme The Charmer, entraîné par Mikel Delzangles, malgré son poids maximum de 60 kilos. Lors de ses cinq dernières participations, le hongre monté par Ioritz Medizabal s`est toujours classé parmi les trois premiers lors de la finale. Highbari (Fabrice Veron), dont la régularité est également convaincante et qui est idéalement placé dans cette classe, se présente également en pleine forme. Easy Amused (Mickael Barzalona) est encore peu testée et n`a pas encore d`expérience dans les courses de quinté. D`après les impressions recueillies jusqu`à présent, elle possède toutes les possibilités. Après trois deuxièmes places consécutives, Harper (Gérald Mossé) aurait bien besoin d`une victoire. Le dernier succès d`Ascot Angel (Christophe Soumillon) remonte certes à plus d`un an, mais ce hongre a également terminé deux fois deuxième dans des courses de quinté. Il s`agit maintenant de faire une petite pause. Alba Power (Stéphane Pasquier) doit encore faire ses preuves dans cette catégorie, mais il semble suffisamment bon pour créer la surprise. San Cristobal (Ronan Thomas) devrait être en mesure d`améliorer les deux dernières formes. Goldino Bello (Tony Piccone) a pris la place d`honneur dans cette course l`année dernière en terminant deuxième.

Iskandara seeks first win with class

Clairefontaine, Monday, 8 August: Obstacle day on the Atlantic coast with the first start at 13:48. Three times it is over the difficult jumps. Five times it is the turn of the specialists over hurdles. This is also the case for the final in the 8th race at 6 pm in the Prix Journal Le Veinard, the Quinté test with sixteen four-year-old candidates. A total of 95,000 euros in prize money is up for grabs.

Although Iskandara, to be ridden by Kilian Dubourg, has never won over jumps, she has collected place money eagerly so far. Her class should be enough to expect her to be right at the front here. After a few unsuccessful attempts, Ilestbo de Houelle (David Gallon) snatched his first win in Vichy just under a fortnight ago. It is this form, as well as his sixth place before in Auteuil, that leaves all possibilities open for him to do well here. Imbatable du Seuil (Theo Chevillard) has even less experience and has only completed one race this year, finishing third in Auteuil. Far more stakes are behind Planetarium (Christopher Riou), who attracted attention when third and fourth at Clairefontaine in July and is considered a final contender here. Matera (Angelo Zuliani) came in ahead of him, but the mare carries maximum weight here. Paint Prince (Thomas Beaurain) keeps running into the money and remains to be mentioned as well as Rock an Roll (Dylan Ubeda) with his very consistent form. Orange Diamond (Damien Mescam) must also be mentioned, who is in top form here with a fresh victory against opponents who are, however, less strong.

Woodstone after France triple now in Dresden?

Dresden, Sunday, 7 August: The first of nine races at Sunday`s event in Dresden will be run at 10.50 am. The race day will be dominated by the bwin Summer Prize at List level. The terrific stable form of Anna Schleusner-Fruhriep speaks in favour of Nastaria (Miguel Lopez), who has just won in Bad Harzburg, in this 6th race at 1.23 pm. A three-time winner in France, Stefan Richter`s Woodstone (Hugo Besnier) comes to the run-off. There is no better form. Also to be mentioned are Ravensberger Wiesentau (Michal Abik) as well as Schlenderhaner Aguirre. Both should be able to compete at this level.

The main event will be framed by eight races for the basic sport. Two Equalisation III races will be held. In the race over 1,400 metres (4th race, 12.20 p.m.) there is no way around Lexi`s Dream (Miguel Lopez). The mare from the stable of Christian Sprengel has now been second three times in a row and seems to be overdue for a hit. In the introductory Equalisation III over 2,100 metres, all eyes will be on Good Lord (Miguel Lopez), whom Marcel Weiß led to victory right from his lifetime debut and for whom it is now a matter of keeping the clean slate. The winless race of the three-year-olds (8th race, 2.30 p.m.) is also interesting, whereby Saldenlady (Lilli-Marie Engels) is most likely to lose her winless status after her second place in Hamburg.

British Armada with Naval Crown in the lead

Deauville, Sunday, 7 August: Great sport will be on offer on the Atlantic coast with the first start at 1.58 pm, with the Quinté, two Listed races, a Group III test and the Arc Prix de Maurice de Gheest at the highest Group level. 14 short-distance specialists will gather at the 1,300-metre start mark in this fourth test of the day at 15.55 hrs. The prize money amounts to 380,000 euros.

The German representative is Namos (Vladimir Panov) from Dominik Moser`s stable, but the stallion is not expected to have more than an outside chance. Especially the British seem to be well prepared. First and foremost Naval Crown (James William Doyle), who underlined this form by finishing second in the July Cup at Newmarket after scoring in Group I during Royal Ascot. Behind him, Perfect Power (Christophe Soumillon) did not have a chance in seventh, but this stallion also won a Group I exam at Royal Ascot. For the three-year-old Harry Three (Kieran Shoemark), this is his first appearance in a Group race. Most recently he has won three in a row, giving opponents no chance. Artorius (James Peter Spencer) seems to be locked into place money at the highest level and regularly runs to the front. Minzaal (James Vincent Crowley) enters as a fresh winner of a Group III race at Newbury. Accakaba (Maxime Guyon) last won a year ago, but the mare has collected some place money since then. Highfield Princess (Jason Hart), who has already won two races this season, should not be without a chance.

500,000 Euro Highlight: The Diana Classic in Düsseldorf!

Düsseldorf, Sunday, 6 August: The Grafenberg is looking for the gallop queen on Sunday: In the 164th Henkel - Prize of Diana - German Oaks (Group I, 2,200 m), the best three-year-old mares will be competing for race prizes worth 500,000 euros and a great deal of renown. This top-class social and sporting event is the second most valuable gallop race of the entire German racing season after the Derby and the top date in Düsseldorf.

But which owner will collect the 300,000 euro victory premium in the field of 14 three-year-old mares this year? Maybe the Nice Stable, because Nachtrose (B. Mzarabayev) won very impressively in the Oaks d` Italia. Mountaha (A. Starke) from the Schlenderhan Stud wants to turn the tables on her Hamburg conqueror Well Disposed (W. Lee) from the Röttgen Stud. This stud is also hoping for the Derby-pechvogel Wagnis (A. de Vries), who previously won the Diana-Trial in Hoppegarten. One of trainer Markus Klug`s five candidates is also the other Group winner Mylady (L. Delozier).

A very interesting guest is of course Toy (R. Moore) as Irish Oaks runner-up from the stable of star trainer Aidan O` Brien in Ireland. The French Abhayaa (E. Hardouin) won the trial in Mülheim. Toskana Belle (with the Australian Kerrin McEvoy) and Narmada (R. Piechulek) were re-named for 50,000 Euros each. The four-way bet with a 25,000 euro guaranteed payout is on offer.

The classic is embedded in a class card of nine races between 1.45pm and 6.15pm, which includes the Fritz Henkel Foundation Race (Group III, 55,000 euros, 1,600m). Best Lightning (M. Seidl) has it easier than at Ascot. Peace Warrior (K. McEvoy) pleased in Dortmund. Sahib`s Joy (B. Murzabayev) Calif (M. Pecheur) and Zavaro (M. Cadeddu) are known greats.

And in the Grafenberg BBAG Auction race (52,000 Euros, 1,600 m) Arnis Master (A. de Vries) seems to be a common tip. The second four-way bet with a 10,000 euro guarantee is in the 9th race (Equalisation IV, 1,700 m).

Will Govea remain unbeaten?

Deauville, Saturday, 6 August: Deauville offers a colourful programme this Saturday. Among the handicaps, the Quinté race at 3.15 pm dominates. But the focus is primarily on the two-year-olds who will be competing for List honours in the Prix de la Vallee d`Auge over 1,000 metres, which carries a purse of 60,000 Euros. The boxes for the ten starters will open at 5 pm in this sixth race.

Full attention will be paid to Goeva, who is managed by Philippe Sogorb, is still unbeaten after two starts and wants to continue this series. Christophe Soumillon was in the saddle for both victories and will ride the mare again. However, one must not make the calculation without Eddy`s Boy (Mickael Barzalona), who is travelling from England and is already experienced after six starts. The stallion already has two wins behind him, two third places at Listed level and he was recently fourth on the Group III stage at Goodwood. Vicious Harry (Tony Piccone) must be included in all considerations. He comes to the expiry third from the Prix Robert Papin (Group II). Two other horses will be saddled with fresh winning rides. So Al Dasim (Jack Mitchell), who recently won at Windsor on his fourth lifetime start, and Can to Can (Ioritz Mendizabal), who found victory lane at her second attempt at Pontrefact. Both horses should be able to improve.

Hassloch: Kleinkorres armada with the best prospects

Hassloch, Saturday, 06 August: The anticipation is great, on Saturday the focus will finally be back on the racecourse in Hassloch when a traditional race is scheduled. Seven tests will be held between 2 pm and 5:30 pm.

And the Hassloch Mile (Equalisation III, 1,600 m) stands out. Here, the splendidly stepped-up Muelheimer Perle (B. Murzabayev) is likely to attract a lot of followers. Mr Virtuoso (L.-M. Engels) won in Krefeld in good style. The Muelheim trainer Axel Kleinkorres is engaged with a big attack on this day, there should be several hits for his stable.

10,000 Euros beckon in the four-horse bet of the 6th race (Equalisation IV, 1,600 m). The top-weight Diamond Gold (L. Wolff) could come into play here again.

Does Tribalist shine at List level?

Deauville, Thursday, 4 August: The first start at 16.38 marks the beginning of the Deauville race day. Eight tests will be run, including the Quinté race as the 7th test of the day. But the sporting focus will be on the Prix de Tourgeville, a €55,000 Listed race for three-year-old mile specialists. Nine horses will be saddled in this third race. Start time is at 17.48 hrs.

The field also includes a horse from a German stable, Georgios, trained by Peter Schiergen. The winner of last year`s Ferdinand Leisten Memorial, who also won outright on his 2022 debut, is ridden by Bauyrzhan Murzabayev and, after the following group placings, can now put a spanner in the French` works at list level. The favourite role, however, goes to Tribalist (Mickael Barzalona) from André Fabre`s quarters. After great performances at Group level, the stallion should shine in this company. Russipant (Hugo Lebouc) also does not have to hide behind the performances he has shown so far. After his fifth place in the Prix Eugene Adam (Group II), the stallion also returns to a lower echelon with great chances. Two horses should still be mentioned. Mirsky (Olivier Peslier), recently third in a Listed race, is preferred to Yoozuna (Maxime Guyon), who did not stand a chance in the Derby last time, but previously showed that he can keep up in this class when finishing second in a Listed race.