Granvillaise Bleu facing next penalty

Paris-Vincennes, Friday, 30 June: Tonight`s evening card at Paris-Vincennes has seven races in store. The Prix Guillaume de Bellaigue (2nd race/19.33h/90,000 Euro/2700m) appeals to the highest class.

The trotting race for older horses once again sees the Pierre Levesque-trained Granvillaise Bleu (Camille Levesque) as the winner. The seven-year-old last competed in the Prix Paul Delanoe (Group 3) on 6 June and, as expected, won completely confidently ahead of Fulton (Damien Bonne) and Go For The Gold (Mathieu Mottier), who did everything right in the places, while Freeman de Houelle (Anthony Barrier) and Happy and Lucky (Adrien Lamy) collected the last money a little further back. Empty went Hirondelle du Rib (Jean Dersoir), who was disqualified after a mistake, but before that ran very strongly in the Prix Theophile Lallouet (group 2) and successfully defended second place behind the superior Granvillaise Bleu against Figaro de Larre (Benjamin Rochard) and Fakir de l`Ecluse (Alexandre Abrivard).

Listed Grand Prix in Hamburg

Hamburg, Friday, 30 June: Now the Derby Meeting 2023 in Hamburg-Horn is really getting into full swing. Because on Friday, the third day of the race week, eleven tests are scheduled to take place between 11:05 am and 5:40 pm. The first five races can also be contested from France.

The highlight is the short-distance event for the Lotto Hamburg Grand Prix (Listed race, 30,000 Euros, 1,200 m). Clever Candy (B. Ganbat) could keep the victory in the Hanseatic city. Waldersee (E. Pedroza) is a regular guest in this race and of course a strong factor. The French trainer Tim Donworth, who already performed here on Sunday, offers Aubazine (G. Trolley de Prevaux), who was second in Hanover. Best Flying (M. Seidl), who finished third here in 2022, is also very conceivable as a winner.

10,000 Euros are offered on the four-horse bets of the 8th race (Equalisation I, 1,400 m) and the subsequent 11th race (Equalisation III, 1,800 m).

Garrus vs. Fort Payne

Longchamp, jeudi 29 juin : Le Prix de la Porte Maillot (2e course/17h18/80.000 euros/1400 m), qui fait partie du groupe 3, est le point central des neuf courses organisées aujourd`hui à Longchamp.

Garrus (Ioritz Mendizabal), entraîné par Charlie Hills, peut être considéré comme le vainqueur. L`année dernière, le fils d`Acclamation a remporté le Prix de Ris-Orangis (groupe 3) à Deauville et a ensuite pris la troisième place du Prix Maurice de Gheest (groupe 1). Cette année, il s`est illustré dans les Abernant Stakes (groupe 3). La tâche est rendue plus difficile par Fort Payne (Christophe Soumillon), qui a récemment fait valoir toute sa classe dans le Prix du Palais-Royal (groupe 3), s`imposant facilement face à National Service (Tony Piccone), King Gold (Stéphane Pasquier) et Egot (Mickael Barzalona). Ce dernier avait auparavant obtenu une victoire facile sur liste à Chantilly, où Tigrais (Aurelien Lemaitre) n`avait pu faire mieux que sixième dans le Prix de Sandringham. Sicilian Defense (Alexis Pouchin) a fait mouche ici dans une épreuve de type noir pour juments.

Baden-Baden winner in the Prix Hampton

Chantilly, Wednesday, 28 June: Eight races will be run today on the Derby track in Chantilly. Among the highlights is the Prix Hampton (5th race/15.15/52.000 Euro/1000 m), a Listed race with seven participants (Tertius is a non-starter).

Perdika (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) won a similar sprint match here at the beginning of the month against Zudu Spirit (Ricardo Ferreira), among others, and before that she finished in an excellent position of honour ahead of Tudo Bem (Hugo Boutin) at Group 3 level in Longchamp. The latter later ran one category higher in the Prix du Gros-Chêne (Group 2) and again finished fourth ahead of Berneuil (Ronan Thomas), whose Group 3 victory in the Prix du Petit Couvert (Group 3) against Bouttemont (Christophe Soumillon), among others, from the previous year deserves a note. The Barberot protégé ran this year in Meydan without a score, but pleased here in the Prix Servanne (Listed race) as third before Amellata (Mickael Barzalona), who won in Baden-Baden, and Tudo Bem. Purest Time (Stephane Pasquier) strengthened his continuing top form with a narrow victory in Dieppe.

Top stayer in the Langer Hamburger

Hamburg, Wednesday, 28 June: After two days without racing, it`s back to business today on the second day of the Derby meeting at the racecourse in Hamburg-Horn. Because with the Long Hamburger (Listed race, 25,000 Euros, 3,200 m) the longest race of the race week is on the programme.

Nastaria (M. Lopez) is a proven top stayer and is approaching success. Last time in Cologne she had to give way to Lotterbov (A. Starke), who can defend his clean slate here this year. In 2022 Diamantis (M. Seidl) had the biggest horse tongue and is now gearing up for a successful title defence.

Six competitions will be held between 5:35 pm and 8:10 pm. The four-horse bet with guaranteed payouts of 10,000 Euros each will be enticing in the 3rd race (Equalisation IV, 1,600 m) and in the 5th race (Equalisation III, 1,350 m).

Five in the Derby du Languedoc

Toulouse, Tuesday 27 June: at the Hippodrome La Cepiere in Toulouse, the Derby du Languedoc (3rd race/13.00/55,000 euros/2400m/listed race) takes centre stage today. A small, five-strong field goes on the trip and the winner could end up being the Francis-Henri Graffard-trained Gallerist (Mickael Barzalona).



Three wins in four starts is the track record of the Zoffany son, who has always been confidently ahead in his victories. He has to be especially careful of Perama (Valentin Seguy), who finished third on the list here in April and followed this up with a victory over Tolganai (Cristian Demuro) and Yes Zara (Enzo Corallo) in La Teste-de-Buch. Mononof (Pierre Bazire) closes the circle of horses with good chances. After two sobering performances in Saint-Cloud and Longchamp at list and group 3 level respectively, he recently achieved the expected second lifetime success against higher rated horses in Lyon.

Comeback of Wonnemond

Lyon, Monday, 26 June: Eight interesting races are on the programme at the Hippodrome de Lyon today. A German victory is on the horizon in the Prix Albert Swann (3rd race/14.58 h/22.000 Euro/1600 m).

Sarah Steinberg will saddle Runnymede (Rene Piechulek), who was successful three times in a row in France last year, for the Salzburg stable. Before his break, he ran at List level in Vichy and just missed another score. But in second place he kept Amedras (Eddy Hardouin) and Integrant (Clement Lecoeuvre) safely at bay. The latter two attracted attention with good placings this year. The comeback of Wonnemond (Augustin Madamet) from the stable of Sascha Smrczek is eagerly awaited. The group and list winner finished third in his last group 3 appearance in Italy. Loliwood (Frida Valle Skar) and Perle Rouge (Guillaume Millet) have recommended themselves with two current honours. Explore The Shore (Ethel Rabhi) has little chance.

Four classics in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Sunday, 25 June: A major event with nine races, four of them at Group 1 level, will take place today in Paris-Vincennes.

The Prix d`Essai (3rd race/14.33 h/200,000 Euro/2700 m) is aimed at three-year-old saddle trotters and Kyt Kat (Mathieu Mottier), who is currently leading the year group, is the horse to beat. The stallion underlined his supremacy in Caen in Prix Pierre Gamare (Group 2) with a triumph by double time over stablemate Kandora Bella (Camille Levesque). Kyrielle de Vaux (Adrien Lamy) and Kelanie Lorraine (Paul Philippe Ploquin), who were among themselves here in the Prix Hemine (Group 2), can also count on good chances.

The next Monté highlight addresses the 2018-born crop in the Prix de Normandie (5th race/15.55pm/240,000 euros/3000m). Here, too, trainer Thomas Levesque saddles the favourite with Iroise de la Noe (Camille Levesque). A question mark remains over the winner of the Prix Henri Levesque (Group 2), as she is competing in this discipline for the first time. Ideale du Chêne (Paul Philippe Ploquin) tried twice in front of the sulky after her retirement in the Prix des Centaures (Group 1), where Ina du Rib (Jean Dersoir) finished third. Before that she gave good performances in the Prix Paul Bastard (Group 2) and in the Prix Camille Blaisot (Group 2), both in second place. Ivrig Viking (Yoann Lebourgeois) can no longer be underestimated after his triumph in the Prix Victor Cavey (Group 2) over Ina du Rib, Inbreed (Alexis Collette) and Ines des Rioults (Benjamin Rochard).

The `K` generation will be tested in front of the sulky in the Prix Albert Viel (6th race/16.35pm/200,000 Euro/2700m). Judging by the result in the Prix Kalmia (Group 2), the decision should be between King Opera (William Bigeon) and Koctel du Dain (David Thomain), who are fighting for the win, but Krack Time About (Alexandre Abrivard), Canada (Theo Duvaldestin) and Ksar (Mathieu Abrivard), who follow closely behind, also register claims to the top places, especially as they have already been seen in front in previous Group exams. Kana de Beylev (Benjamin Rochard) was recently unbeatable in the mare counterpart Prix Ozo (Group 2) and behind them Keserasera (Francois Lagadeuc), Kalamity d`Heripre (Franck Nivard) and Kabaka de Guez (Nicolas Bazire) cut a good figure.

Under saddle, the four-year-olds are under order in the Prix du Président de la République (7th race/17.15 h/240,000 Euro/2850 m). Jasper des Charmes (Eric Raffin) left no doubts in his latest `while` hit in the Prix Lavater (Group 2). Without pushing his limits, the Bazire protégé relegated J`Adore (Alexis Collette) and Jelyson (Adrien Lamy) to the places. Jean Balthazar (Yoann Lebourgeois) and Joyeuse (Mathieu Mottier), who made mistakes in front of the sulky last time, but were dazzling in the Prix Henri Balliere (Group 2) before that, will take up the chase.

Cast off for Derby Week 2023

Hamburg, Sunday, 25 June: Anticipation of the great days in the Hanseatic city: The Derby Week in Hamburg-Horn begins on Sunday. Exactly seven days before the race of the year, the IDEE 154th German Derby, the starting signal is given for the five top racing days on the Alster.

Top-class mares will tackle the Sparkasse Holstein Cup (List race, 25,000 euros, 2,200 m). Frenchman Henri-Alex Pantall is planning his expeditions to Germany very well and has a hot iron in the fire with Greym (L. Delozier). She stands to win after two places of honour. But also the other French mare Alpenblume (C. Demuro) seems to be favourably placed. The German mares don`t have to hide either, especially Derida (R. Piechulek) and Ad Astra (B. Murzabayev) we believe have further potential.

The Equalisation II over 1,800 metres is also very appealing. Vaisseau Fantome (A. v. d. Troost) won once again in Baden-Baden and could be destined for higher things.

77,777 Euros (including a jackpot of 51,127.52 Euros) will be paid out in the "7 wins!" bet, which will be offered in races 2,3,4,5,6,8,9. There will be a total of nine competitions between 10:45 am and 3:50 pm. 10,000 Euros each will be offered in the four-way bet of the 5th race (Equalisation IV, 2,000 m) and the 9th race (Equalisation II, 1,800 m). The first five competitions will also be broadcast to France.

Hong Kong star Wellington at Ascot

Ascot, Saturday 24 June: The magnificent Royal Ascot Festival concludes today with a seven-race card. The main players are the sprinters in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (3rd race/16.40pm/1m pounds/1207m).

Artorius (James McDonald) narrowly missed out on victory last year, finishing third ahead of Sacred (Tom Marquand) and Highfield Princess (Jason Hart), who also followed closely. It is the Australian`s first start after finishing fourth in the George Ryader Stakes (Group 1). Sacred was also off the pace after winning the Chartwell Fillies Stakes (Group 3), while Highfield Princess ran here only four days ago in the King`s Stand Stakes (Group 1) and took silver.

The real star of the race is Wellington (Ryan Moore) from the stable of Richard Gibson. Running outside Hong Kong for the first time, the six-time Euro millionaire has yet to win a race this year but has hit the bullseye a total of twelve times in his adopted country. Kinross (Frankie Dettori) makes his comeback. He last ran in the Breeders` Cup (Group 1) and finished third. Prior to that, the six-year-old triumphed in the Champions Sprint Stakes (Group 1) against Run To Freedom (Daniel O`Neill) and Rohaan (Adam Kirby), who are again among his opponents. Big Invasion (Jim Crowley) is travelling from the USA. He currently ran at Group 1 level and narrowly missed out on victory.

Tough task for Nacido

Compiegne, Saturday, 24 June: Nine races are on the programme today in Compiegne, where the Grand Prix of the same name is also the fifth leg of the Défi du Galop racing series (6th race/16.23 h/60,000 Euro/2000 m).

Bolthole (Christophe Soumillon) was the winner at the stop in Bordeaux. The four-year-old previously ran in Qatar and finished third in a Group 1 race over grass, whereupon he more than doubled his winning number. Chancellery (Mickael Barzalona) made his debut here three weeks ago. The Fabre protégé came straight to the wire ready to win after a long break. Glaer (Jean-Bernard Eyquem) has already won three times this year, albeit on various sand tracks. Dawn Intello (Gerald Mosse) announced himself in Strasbourg, previous successes at the highest level speak for him. Dreams (Cristian Demuro) and Shahzad (Alexis Pouchin) are in good form and more likely to surprise than France debutant Nacido (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev), who was recently without opportunities in the Oleander race (Group 2).

Two classics for the three-year-olds

Ascot, Friday, 23 June: Great sport will also be on offer on the fourth day of the Festival at Royal Ascot. The Commonwealth Cup (2nd race/16.05pm£600,000/1207m), established only eight years ago for three-year-old sprinters, could be a haul for Aidan O`Brien`s Little Big Bear (Ryan Moore).

After his poor showing in the 2000 Guineas (Group 1), he put things right again in the Sandy Lane Stakes (Group 2), winning easily by just under two lengths against Shouldvebeenaring (Sean Levey). Sakheer (David Egan) also came up empty in Newmarkt, but finished well ahead of the O`Brien charge. Last year, the Varian protégé won the Mill Reef Stakes (Group 2) in superior fashion. Shaquille (Oisin Murphy) has yet to lose a race this year and, like Cheveley Park Stakes winner Lezoo (Frankie Dettori), is expected to finish well in front. Noble Style (James Doyle) had no chance against Shaquille at Newbury, but a reversal of form still seems possible. Ocean Quest (Colin Keane) always runs reliably in the honoured ranks.

It`s over the mile in the Coronation Stakes (4th race/17.20pm/500th,000 pounds/1603m) for the three-year-old fillies. Last year`s runner-up in the Queen Anne Stakes was dominated by Insprial from the stable of John and Thady Gosden, who once again have a hot potato in the fire in Queen For You (Robert Havlin). On her most recent start, she battled Sounds Of Heaven (Ronan Whelan) to victory and narrowly lost out. Tahiyra (Chris Hayes) and Meditate (Ryan Moore) also met last time out. In both the Irish and English 1000 Guineas (Group 1), the Aga Khan mare was clearly better and that was not to change this time. Mammas Girl (Kevin Stott) deserves a mention as the winner of the Nell Gwyn Stakes (Group 3).

14 stayers dans l`Ascot Gold Cup

Ascot, jeudi 22 juin : Le Royal Ascot Festival entame aujourd`hui sa troisième édition. L`accent est mis sur les chevaux debout dans la Gold Cup (4e course/17h20/600.000 livres/4014 m), que Subjectivist (Joe Fanning) avait remportée il y a deux ans. Il a ensuite fait une longue pause, a fait ses débuts cette année lors du meeting d`Arabie Saoudite et s`est récemment classé troisième de la Dubai Gold Cup (groupe 2).

Les premières chances sont attribuées à Coltrane (Oisin Murphy). Ce cheval de six ans s`est entraîné ici avec succès dans les Sagaro Stakes (groupe 3) pour l`épreuve d`aujourd`hui et a battu Wise Eagle (Daniel Tudhope) de quatre longueurs et demie. Il y a un an, il avait remporté un handicap. Avant la pause, il a perdu la Long Distance Cup (groupe 2) contre Trueshan (Hollie Doyle), qui a récemment terminé clairement derrière ces deux derniers. Eldar Eldarov (David Egan) a réussi un grand coup dans le St. Leger anglais (groupe 1). En début de saison, il s`est classé deuxième de la Yorkshire Cup (groupe 2) devant Broome (Wayne Lordan), pour qui la caisse a sonné cette année lors de la Dubai Gold Cup. Emily Dickinson (Ryan Moore) a donné une performance convaincante dans les Vintage Crop Stakes (courses de liste), se classant cinquième dans le St Leger derrière Eldar Eldarov. Courage Mon Ami (Frankie Dettori) part invaincu et s`apprête à faire son baptême du feu. Le triple millionnaire Yibir (William Buick) est entré en quatrième position au niveau du groupe 3, le Godolphin fera certainement mieux cette fois-ci. Echoes In Rain (Tom Marquand) sort du parcours d`obstacles, mais a déjà montré des choses remarquables sur le plat.

Luxembourg against the Derby winner

Ascot, Wednesday, 21 June: On the second day of the Royal Ascot Festival, the Prince of Wales`s Stakes (4th race/17.20/1 million pounds/2004m) will take centre stage. Twelve months ago State Of Rest from the stable of Joseph O`Brien triumphed and his successor could be Luxembourg (Ryan Moore), saddled by Aidan O`Brien, who was the winner two years ago with Love. The four-year-old recently proved his great class in the Tattersalls Gold Cup (Group 1) with a sure victory over Bay Bridge (Richard Kingscote). Sir Michael Stoute`s protégé lost with honour in the previous year and later made up for the victory in the Champion Stakes (Group 1). By half a length, the New Bay son defeated My Prospero (Tom Marquand) as well as the English Derby winner Adayar (William Buick), who rehearsed most successfully for today`s task in the Gordon Richard Stakes (Group 3). Mostahdaf (Jim Crowley) pleased when second in the Hardwicke Stakes (Group 2) here at last year`s Festival. Most recently he ran in the Dubai Sheema Classic (Group 1) and finished fourth. Classic Causeway (Julien Leparoux) has kept his head above water with placings in the USA this year.

Further highlights will take place at Group 2 level. A duel between Born To Rock (William Buick) and Beautiful Diamond (Clifford Lee) is expected to kick off the Queen Mary Stakes. In the Duke Of Cambridge Stakes, Jumbly (Ryan Moore) will be tested by Prosperous Voyage (Frankie Dettori) and Grande Dame (Jamie Spencer) and in the Queen`s Vase, Gregory (Frankie Dettori) and Circle of Fire (Richard Kingscote) are just two of several contenders for victory.

Prelude to the Royal Ascot Festival

Ascot, Tuesday 20 June: The Royal Festival at Ascot begins today with a host of classics including the inaugural Queen Anne Stakes (1st race/15.30/750,000 pounds/1609m). A year after Baaeed, Inspiral (Frankie Dettori) is trying to follow in his footsteps. On her last start here in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (Group 1), the Gosden mare did not finish higher than sixth behind Modern Games (William Buick), who was currently unbeaten in the Lockinge Stakes (Group 1). Native Trail (James Doyle), also running for Godolphin, was beaten at Newmarket by Mutasaabeq (Jim Crowley), who again lost out to Modern Games, Chindit (Pat Dobbs) and Berkshire Shadow.

The next Group 1 meeting is in the King`s Stand Stakes (3rd race/16.40pm/600,000 pounds/1006m). Highfield Princess (Jason Hart) will be looking to rectify her strike result a year ago in the Platinum Jubilee Stakes (Group 1), something the Quinn mare should be able to do after a good honours finish in the Duke Of York Clipper Stakes (Group 2). Coolangatta (James McDonald) travels from Australia with a fresh Group 1 win and is expected to be in the closer as is Manaccan (Frankie Dettori), who pleased when third in the Palace House Stakes (Group 3).

Exclusively horses of Derby vintage are under order in the St James`s Palace Stakes (4th race/5.20pm/600,000 pounds/1603m). Chaldean (Frankie Dettori) from Andrew Balding`s quarters underlined his top position among the mile cracks in the 2000 Guineas (Group 1). His father, the legendary Frankel, was already in a class of his own here twelve years ago. He will have to watch out for Paddington (Ryan Moore), who is undefeated this year and recently scored his most valuable in the Irish 2000 Guineas (Group 1). Cicero`s Gift (Kieran Shoemark) has done no wrong in his three-start career. It remains to be seen how the Muhaarar son will perform today.

Goya Senora top again this time?

Saint-Cloud, Monday, 19 June: Eight races will be decided today in Saint-Cloud. The best race on the afternoon card is the Prix la Moskowa (6th race/16.43/52,000 euros/3000m), which belongs to the Black Type category.

Goya Senora (Clement Lecoeuvre) is traded as the winner, although he was only sixth at List level in Lyon last time. Last year`s Prix Kergorlay (Group 2) winner over Skazino (Mickael Barzalona) had to acknowledge the Cottier protégé half a length ahead of him this time and Vert Liberte (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) was also clearly better in third, his previously achieved honours rank confirmed. Moon Wolf (Alexis Pouchin) gave an excellent performance in the Prix de Barbeville (Group 3) at Longchamp in third place, which is expected to put him back in the frontrunners. At the same place Virtual Rock (Ioritz Mendizabal) triumphed at list level. Princess Anne (Jules Mobian) deserves a mention as the only mare in the field. Fasol (Stephane Pasquier), Opera Gift (Olivier Peslier) and Carlo Biraghi (Christophe Soumillon) won their last appearances.

Prix de Diane with German hopefuls

Chantilly, Sunday, June 18: France`s classic mare race, the Prix de Diane (5th race/16.05/1 million euros/2100 m), will be decided today in Chantilly with 15 horses. German hopes rest on Michael Figge`s Romina Power (Augustin Madamet), Andreas Wöhler`s Lady Ewelina (Eddy Pedroza) and on Tasmania (Tom Marquand) trained by Francis-Henri Graffard for the Schlenderhan Stud. The former won this year in Baden-Baden as a big underdog, her traveling companion secured a Group 3 race in Cologne and the Australia daughter won two minor assignments in France. To be considered for a top placing, the Germans will have to improve tremendously, especially since Pensee du Jour (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) from Andre Fabre`s quarters is a horse of special quality. She recently won the Prix Penelope (Group 3) without any problems. Jannah Rose (Christophe Soumillon) and Elusive Princess (Mickael Barzalona), who are competing in the Prix Saint-Alary (Group 1), and the eighth-placed Left Sea (Olivier Peslier), who performed well at List level only a week ago, also appear to have good chances. Blue Rose Cen (Aurelien Lemaitre) and Lindy (Cristian Demuro) are the top two finishers in the poule. The Aidan O`Brien-trained Never Ending Story (Ryan Moore) was in the picture in fifth. She is joined by Joseph O`Brien`s Group 3 winner Caroline Street (Declan McMonagle). From England, Running Lion (Oisin Murphy) and Novakai (Clifford Lee) travel with good performances.

The Filly Derby will be framed by three Group 3 races, a Listed test and the Arabian Derby.

Dortmund Grand Prix with defending champion

Dortmund, Sunday, 18 June: Grand Prix horses head for the racecourse in Dortmund on Sunday, because it is time again for the Grand Prix of Economy (Group III, 55,000 Euros, 1,800 m). It will be interesting to see who will follow Parol (S. Vogt), who is also bidding for the title himself again. He finished a promising second in the Baden Mile.

Especially Aguirre (A. Starke) and Petit Marin (S. Byrne), who finished first and second in a Listed test in Cologne, deserve some attention.

The Equalisation II over the mile stands out from the supporting programme of nine races between 13:45 and 17:55. Iglesia (A. Starke) and Kongo (S. Vogt) are strongly to be noted. The quadruple bet with a guaranteed payout of 10,000 euros will be played out in the 4th race, the Equalisation II just described.

Cash Bank Bigi the logical winner

Enghien, Saturday, June 17: Horses in the winning category up to 450,000 euros are under order today in the Prix de New York (4th race/15.15 pm/90,000 euros/2150 m). Cash Bank Bigi (Franck Nivard), who ran strongly when second in the Prix Bold Eagle (Group 1) on the day of the Prix d`Amérique, should not be denied the match. Her main opponents include Kennedy (Eric Raffin) and Al Capone Stecca (Tony le Beller), who have been pleasing in the places recently at Vincennes. Heliade du Goutier (Alexandre Abrivard) would be conceivable in front with the performance from the Prix de Chenonceaux (Group 3), where she was second and Cash Bank Bigi was disqualified. Fine Perle of Love (Matthieu Abrivard) deserves increased notice as a surprise runner-up here in the Prix de l`Obelisque (Course B) ahead of Faubourg (Pierre-Yves Verva).

Mares over hurdles on group test stand

Auteuil, Saturday, June 17: Eight steeplechase races will be decided today in Auteuil. Aimed at five-year-old fillies, the Prix Christian de Tredern (4th race/13.40pm/135,000 euros/3600m) is over hurdle jumps. The immensely consistent Indian de Gascogne (Felix de Giles) has what it takes to win the lot. She currently lost at list level to the blatantly surprising Impulse Precieuse (Alban Desvaux), but with more favorable weight she should be able to reverse her form. Flash Davier (Bertrand Lestrade) held her own against the stallions in the Prix Rose or No (List race), but ran faulty at Group 3 level last time. Edwina (Teddy Vabois) showed an approach on the flat course. Here she was a superior winner in November against, among others, Javanaise (), who had a hurdle win in March. Manurose (Nathan Howie) and Montabella (Theo Chevillard) are recommended by their fresh May successes.

BBAG auction race for 52,000 euros!

Dresden, Saturday, 17 June: In the past, there was even a two-day meeting in Dresden in June. Although that has long been history, what has remained is a more than attractive Saturday around the BBAG Auction Race (52,000 Euros, 1,200 m) for three-year-old sprinters.

Power Daddy (A. de Vries) and Look At Me (M. Seidl) can do what is required here. Waldeza (R. Piechulek) is very dangerous on a good day. El Rubio (J. Bojko) shone at the Hanoverian. Nine tests (seven canter, two trot) are on the card in total between 1:30 pm and 6:10 pm. The four-horse bet will be played out in the 8th race (Equalisation IV, 1,900 m). Manjaro (N. Polli) and Slay The Dragon (M. Lopez) could be suitable candidates.

Munster Oaks Stakes with last year`s winner

Cork, Friday, 16 June: The Munster Oaks Stakes (5th race/19.35 h/60,000 Euro/2410 m), a Group 3 race for three-year-old and older mares, will be decided today in Cork, Ireland. Rosscarbery (W. Lee), who won here a year ago, starts the season and is once again seen at the front by the experts.

She last ran in the Champions Fillies Stakes (Group 1) and came in fifth. The five-year-old will be challenged by Azazat (Christ Hayes), who has never finished worse than third in her short career and has improved at every start. Final Gesture (Ronan Whelan) impressed at Gowran Park in her highly convincing victory at Listed level. She joins the likes of Cairde Go Deo (Colin Keane), Lambada (Seamie Heffernan) and Library (Wayne Lordan), who have recently been unchallenged at Group 3 level, among the horses in with a chance. Annerville (Ben Coen) and Thunder Roll (Declan McDonogh) are also not out of the world with their current placings.

Strong mares in the Prix de Thiberville

Longchamp, Thursday, 15 June: Eight races are on the programme in Longchamp this early evening. The Prix de Thiberville (6th race/20.05 h/55.000 Euro/2400 m), which belongs to the list class, is aimed at three-year-old fillies.

Amboise (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) switched to the grass track after two winless attempts and promptly won both here and in Saint-Cloud, both in today`s hands. The mare, who runs for Juddmonte, will be up against Yorokobi (Aurelien Lemaitre), who has been narrowly beaten on each of her two appearances and should soon score her first. Iznik (Maxime Guyon) collected place money in the Group 3 Prix Penelope and the Prix de la Seine (Listed race). The Rouget mare is expected to win as well as Crack Of Light (Mickael Barzalona), who is sent from England by William Haggas and has interesting forms. Valcava (Sibylle Vogt) is running for Swiss interests. She won last time in Nancy in a highly superior manner by ten lengths. Shmi (Christophe Soumillon) and There`s The Door (Tony Piccone) are other in-form contenders. Litfoff (Kieran Shoemark) makes her seasonal debut. John and Thady Gosden are her trainers, who certainly don`t arrive without hopes.

Schiergen with Wild Man in Saint-Cloud

Saint-Cloud, Wednesday 14 June: An interesting eight-race card is on offer in Saint-Cloud today. The Prix du Château de Vanves (6th race/16.43 h/26.000 Euro/2000 m) has been chosen by Peter Schiergen and Waldemar Hickst, who will attack against ten rivals with Wild Man (Rene Piechulek) and Kabir (Mickael Barzalona) respectively.

Both did not get beyond the midfield in two appearances each this year, but were already successful on the higher stage. The press favours Wild Man, while Kabir is one of the more likely outsiders. The hosts are well-placed with Plain Beau (Simon Planque) coming up trumps at Longchamp. Royaumont (Stephane Pasquier) and Cuncerto (Maxime Guyon) are two other horses who have already won this year and are expected to be far ahead. By The Way (Aurelien Lemaitre) and Johen (Marie Velon) mainly stand out with placings, a bull`s eye is only a question of time.

German hopes in Compiegne

Compiegne, Tuesday, 13 June: Eight races will be held in Compiegne today. Better class is addressed by the Prix de Tracy-le-Mont (3rd race/14.58 h/27.000 Euro/1600 m).

German hopes rest on Hans Blume`s Shinning Ocean (Delphine Santiago) and Waldemar Hickst`s Baby Glory (Cristian Demuro). The former is recommended by his Quinté Handicap victory in Chantilly, where the Hickst mare was also a triple-digit odds winner on the sand track recently. Khamma (Theo Bachelot), who was very impressive in her two most recent appearances at List level, should be the favourite. Mirsky (Stephane Pasquier) is another seasonal debutant, his last win coming in the `Classe 1` at Longchamp about a year ago. Valiabad (Maxime Guyon) was not convincing in his debut of the year, last year`s performances count for the Siyouni son. Titanium (Luca Carboni) rarely disappointed before his appearance in the handicap and will be just as interesting with weight allowance as Sun Flare (Malone Favriaux) and Loliwood (Frida Valle Skar).

Schleppi victory in Strasbourg?

Strasbourg, Monday, 12 June: German stables enrich today`s event in Strasbourg, where a victory for the guests is inevitable in the Prix Robert Matzinger (6th race/14.05 pm/19,000 Euro/1400 m).

A similar match was decided here on 8 May by the Sarah Steinberg-trained Wahiba Sands (Rene Piechulek). However, the six-year-old had to fight hard to keep Maavah (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) from Sven Schleppi`s stable at bay, who should turn around her form with a favourable mark. The mare gets shooting help from You`ve Got Sail (Martin Seidl), who finished fourth in the `Classe 4` on the same day. Waldemar Hickst saddles Big Boots (Marie Velon) with good chances. Ten days ago he finished in Compiegne in a good place of honour ahead of Ventura Vision (Corentin Berge) and Madouss (Frida Valle Skar). At the same place, Saga Timgad (Ambe Molins), for whom Marian-Falk Weissmeier is responsible, surprised in fourth place. Ralf Rohne`s Hypnotized (Aurelien Madamet) made a mark in Saint-Cloud. Electroscope (Hugo Besnier) is recommended by a placing on the sand track.

Group 3 races in Longchamp

Longchamp, Sunday, 11 June: After three Listed races at the beginning, two Group 3 tests will follow today in Longchamp.

In the three-year-old Prix Paul de Moussac (5th race/15.50/80,000 Euro/1400 m), Breizh Sky (Maxime Guyon), Valimi (Cristian Demuro) and Good Guess (Stéphane Pasquier), who finished third, fifth and sixth in the Poule d`Essai des Poulains (Group 1), will meet again. The slightly shorter route this time could ensure a reversal of form. Belbek (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) fought for victory here in the Grand Critérium (Group 1) with Breizh Sky. There was half a length between them, but in the Prix Djebel (Group 3) the Botti protégé turned the tables and relegated Belbek to third. In the end, Good Guess was the surprising winner, whom the trade press believes will win today. Ocean Vision (Christophe Soumillon) will find a large following as a Listed winner over Cawdor (Alexis Pouchin).

Older horses are targeted in the La Coupe (6th race/16.25pm/80,000 euros/2000m). West Wind Blows (Christophe Soumillon) gave an excellent performance in the Prix Dollar (Group 2) when third and was also convincing on his seasonal debut in the Jockey Club Stakes when second, which he was subsequently disqualified from after an obstruction. Life In Motion (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) continued her winning streak here in the Prix Jacques Laffitte (Listed race), defeating Hooking (Aurelien Lemaitre). Her fourth place in the Dahlia Stakes (Group 2) did not break the Fabre mare`s crown. Centrical (Alexis Pochin), who had three wins in a row, and Andreas Schütz` Monty (Gerald Mosse), whose honourable mention in the Prix du Conseil de Paris (Group 2) is still a fond memory, complete the circle of favourites.

Will Cologne see the Derby winner again?

Cologne, Sunday, 11 June: There are only three weeks left until the 154th German Derby in Hamburg, time for the most important preliminary test of all, the 188th Union Race (Group II, 70,000 Euros, 2,200 m) on Sunday in Cologne.

It will be interesting to see who will be the favourite for the race of the year one year after Sammarco`s Cologne/Hamburg double. Mr Hollywood (L. Delozier) has the best prerequisites for this as an impressive winner in the Bavarian Classic in Munich, when Skylo (now with world-class jockey Frankie Dettori) finished fourth. Very convincing was the Krefeld score by Napolitano (S. Vogt). Vintage Moon (S. Byrne) and Straight (J. Bojko) held their own in second and third place respectively in the Japan Racing Association Derby Trial. There is 10,000 euros to be won here in the trifecta.

Nine tests will be run in Cologne between 14:00 and 18:05, including a long-distance highlight with the Weidenpescher Steher Cup (Listed race, 25,000 Euros, 3,000 mm). Nastaria (M. Lopez) and Lordano (L. Dettori) bring best merits with them here.

In the Equalisation II over 1,850 metres Navarra Storm (S. Vogt) and Wildfang (A. Starke) are again conceivable in front. Of course, the four-horse bet is also on offer. 15,000 Euros are offered in the 7th race (Equalisation IV, 1,600 metres). Alianne (A. de Vries) could be far ahead.

Ampia Mede Sm in the Prix Chambon P

Paris-Vincennes, Saturday 10 June: Four Group 2 races for 120,000 euros each form the centrepiece of the Paris-Vincennes event today.

In the Prix Jean le Gonidec (4th race/15.50/2175m) Idao de Tillard (Clement Duvaldestin) will try to stay on the winning track. The Duvaldestin protégé, who was last successful in the Prix Jean Riaud (Group 3), will face It`s a Dollarmaker (Eric Raffin), Ideal Ligneries (Franck Nivard) and Invincible Cash (Mathieu Mottier), who set the tone in the Prix Robert Auvray (Group 2).

The Prix Guy le Gonidec (5th race/16.25/2700m) appeals to four-year-old fillies. Jazzy Perrine (Eric Raffin) registers first chances with a fresh win from Solvalla. Just Love You (Alexandre Abrivard) defeated her in the Prix Ourasie (Group 1), but could not convince afterwards. The strong-running but unsafe Joumba de Guez (Jean-Michel Bazire) and Jeegha Pride (Theo Duvaldestin), who made her mark in the Prix de la Dordogne (Course A), are the Malmqvist mare`s main opponents.

The comeback of Ampia Mede Sm (Franck Nivard) in the Prix Chambon P (6th race/17.00/2850 m) is eagerly awaited. The `Amérique` runner-up and winner of the Prix de France and Prix de Paris (Group 1) will face beatable opponents in perennial runner-up Hokkaido Jiel (David Thomain) and Harlem de Bucy (Alexandre Abrivard), whose strong form has continued since the winter.

The four-year-old stallions are under order in the Prix Jules Thibault (7th race/17.35/2700m). Jushua Tree (Jean-Michael Bazire) faces his most difficult task so far after three wins in a row. Just A Gigolo (Franck Nivard), who comes from completely different battles, Jack Tonic (Theo Duvaldestin) and Juninho Dry (Paul Philippe Ploquin) are further candidates for victory.

Great obstacle sport in Auteuil

Auteuil, Saturday, 10 June: The best steeplechase sport comes again today from Auteuil, where older hurdling cracks are under order in the first Group 2 race, the Prix la Barka (6th race/15.32 h/185,000 Euro/4300 m). Classically proven Ashdale Bob (Paul Townend) travels from Ireland with good performances and could take the win. The fiercest rival is likely to be three-time runner-up Ine Anjou (Olivier Jouin), but the recently unlucky Roberta Has (Angelo Zuliani) and Red Risk (Harry Cobden) are also in contention for the win.

Over the chasing jumps is the Prix des Drags (7th race/16.07 h/247,000 Euro/4400 m). Gran Diose (James Reveley), who triumphed in the Prix Georges Courtois (Group 2) at the end of the season, will be difficult to defeat. Ho la la Forez (David Gallon) is sufficiently recommended by his recent victory over the higher rated Iamastar (Nicolas Gauffenic). Motu Fareone (Charlotte Prichard) and La Manigance (Angelo Zuliani) should not be missing from any consideration.

Sixth `GNT` stage in Laval

Laval, Wednesday 7 June: The sixth leg of the Grand National du Trot racing series (7th race/18.00/90,000 euros/2850m) stops in Laval today, where 16 competitors will compete spread over three tapes.

After the impressive performance of Horace du Goutier (Hugues Monthule) in the Saint-Brieuc leg, the road to victory will once again go through the Guarato protégé, who will meet Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon), Doux Parfum (Guillaume Gillot) and Falco Havaroche (Romain Marty) again in the same conditions. For Hip Hop Haufor, the stop in Le Croise-Laroche was a small ray of hope after a series of string results. In third place he was hardly weaker than Happy Valley (Jean-Philippe Dubois), who also finished second to Goeland d`Haufor (Damien Bonne) in the Prix Aletheia (Course A). First chances are also given to Impressionist (Eric Raffin). The Baudron five-year-old won here in April with allowance and later finished fourth in the Prix Robert Auvray (Group 2). Hidalgo des Noes (Gabriele Gelormini) is highly recommended due to his sovereign triumph in Caen.

Exciting holiday programme at Raffelberg

Mülheim, Thursday, 08 June: The last public holiday for the time being, at least in some parts of Germany, is Corpus Christi on Thursday. Clearly, gallop races are also on the programme, but only in Mülheim an der Ruhr.

Between 1:30 pm and 5:20 pm, eight races will be held at Raffelberg. The basic sport dominates. In the 2,000-metre Equaliser III, Sancho (A. de Vries) can be expected to do well after his strong form from Iffezheim. In the 1,500 metre counterpart (6th race) Aberfoyle (A. v. d. Recke) could correct the recent form, but it might not be easy to defeat Naduah (J. Bojko), who is in constant form. A guaranteed payout of 10,000 Euros is waiting for her in the four-horse race.

In the two-year-olds over 1,300 metres, the trainer from Mülheim, Yasmin Almenräder, trusts Netto (R. Weber). Her colleague Henk Grewe has an interesting novice in Wilko (L. Delozier).

Listed races in Leopardstown

Leopardstown, Thursday, 8 June: Two Listed races are on the programme at Leopardstown today. In the King George V Cup (5th race/20.30 pm/37,500 Euro/2413 m) five three-year-olds will compete and four of them will be saddled by the O`Brien family. Aidan O`Brien has a good chance with Tower Of London (Ryan Moore), who had no chance in the Derby Trial. His sons Donnacha and Joseph will try the in-form Amusement (Gavin Ryan) and Shamwari (Dylan Browne McMonagle) and Thunder Roll (Declan McDonogh) respectively. The trade press, however, believes the Jim Bolger-trained New Variant (Rory Cleary) will win. The three-year-old took ten lengths off his nearest rival in his recent triumph at Naas.

In the Glencairn Stakes (3rd race/19.30/37,500 Euro/1609m), the current winning score favours Moon De Vega (W. Lee), who will be up against Kerkiyra (Ben Coen), who finished a good third in the Park Express Stakes (Group 3). Salt Lake City (Ryan Moore) makes his seasonal debut. The O`Brien protégé is the only three-year-old in the field.

Sixth `GNT` stage in Laval

Laval, Wednesday 7 June: The sixth leg of the Grand National du Trot racing series (7th race/18.00/90,000 euros/2850m) stops in Laval today, where 16 competitors will compete spread over three tapes.

After the impressive performance of Horace du Goutier (Hugues Monthule) in the Saint-Brieuc leg, the road to victory will once again go through the Guarato protégé, who will meet Hip Hop Haufor (Christian Bigeon), Doux Parfum (Guillaume Gillot) and Falco Havaroche (Romain Marty) again in the same conditions. For Hip Hop Haufor, the stop in Le Croise-Laroche was a small ray of hope after a series of string results. In third place he was hardly weaker than Happy Valley (Jean-Philippe Dubois), who also finished second to Goeland d`Haufor (Damien Bonne) in the Prix Aletheia (Course A). First chances are also given to Impressionist (Eric Raffin). The Baudron five-year-old won here in April with allowance and later finished fourth in the Prix Robert Auvray (Group 2). Hidalgo des Noes (Gabriele Gelormini) is highly recommended due to his sovereign triumph in Caen.

Granvillaise Bleue hard to beat

Paris-Vincennes, Tuesday, 6 June: The Prix Paul Delanoe (5th race/18.53 h/90,000 Euro/2175 m), which belongs to Group 3, is up for decision for older saddle trotters of the higher winning category in Vincennes today.

The star of the eleven-strong field is Granvillaise Bleue (Camille Levesque) from Pierre Levesque`s stable, who is worth over one million euros. She recently proved her strong form in the Prix Theophile Lallouet (Group 2). The seven-year-old easily beat Hirondelle du Rib (Jean Dersoir), who had already lost out to the Levesque mare in the Prix Henri Desmontils (Group 3) and the Prix de Cornulier (Group 1), by two and a half lengths. Happy and Lucky (Adrien Lamy) stands out with good placings. Her Group 1 victory in the Prix de Normandie over Hirondelle du Rib should also be noted. Go For The Gold (Matthieu Mottier) and Gef de Play (Anthony Barrier) are two in-form contenders, but they are competing in high class. Fire Cracker (Alexandre Abrivard) and Freeman de Houelle (Benjamin Rochard), on the other hand, are obviously feeling the strain of the past months, but are to be considered by class.

High class in the Prix Vichy Celestins

Vichy, Monday, 5 June: At the Hippodrome de Vichy Bellerive, the Prix Vichy Celestins (2nd race/16.43 h/57,000 Euro/3525 m), a high-quality Course A test with horses of the higher winning category, is up for decision today.

From 325,000 euros winning number, an allowance is required, which means an extra 25 metres for the two protégés from Jean-Michel Bazire`s quarters. Gently de Muze (Christophe Martens) and Elie de Beaufour (Serge Peltier) could nevertheless appear in the front line, as they recently put in an excellent performance in the Prix des Ducs de Normandie (Group 2) behind Hohneck, who is currently successful in the Elitloppet, finishing fourth and fifth. Fakir du Lorault (Gabriele Gelormini) also put in a respectable seventh place. From the basic brand, Horchestro (David Bekaert) is considered to have great chances. On his appearance in the Grand National du Trot in Lyon he was better than Eclat de Gloire (Lois Garcia) and on 24 May he pleased with allowance not far from the winner. Iguski Sautonne (Matthieu Abrivard) and Gamin Jaba (Romain Congard) are other horses in form with prospects of a top placing.

German 1,000 Guineas with the Elite Ladies!

Düsseldorf, Sunday, 04 June - Düsseldorf is looking for its first classic winner as the WEMPE 103rd German 1,000 Guineas (Group III, 125,000 Euros, 1,600 m) gets down to business for the three-year-old horse ladies on Sunday.


Habana (E. Pedroza) might have had a gallop last time and will now present herself from a different side. Tamarinde (R. Piechulek) should also have good chances as the runner-up from a Cologne group race (Karin Baronin von Ullmann-Schwarzgold-Rennen).


Four guests make the match particularly exciting. Very dangerous seems the Godolphin lady Dream Of Love (W. Buick), who only has to adjust the top performance from Dubai, which was later upgraded enormously. A lot can also be expected from the French girls Knock On (T. Trullier) and Wed (A. de Vries), both of whom were re-nominated. The former brings solid performances, while Wed has yet to adjust her last year`s Group form. England`s Stenton Glider (A. Atzeni) is also not to be left out.


The rest of the programme of the ten races between 11:05 and 16:10, of which races 1 to 5 are part of the PMU card in France, is also sure to please. In the Porsche Centre Düsseldorf Derby Trial

(Listed race, 25,000 Euro, 2,200 m) the race of the year is casting its shadow ahead. The Bavarian Classic fourth placed Skylo (M. Cadeddu) is up against the hopeful mare Daytona Sea (A. Starke).


Ezio (S. Vogt) and Sombrero (M. Pecheur) should not have reached their limit yet.


The "7 wins!" bet goes into the next round. 77,777 euros will be paid out here. This includes a jackpot of 25,249.17 euros. 15,000 euros will be paid out in the four-race bet of the Guineas and 10,000 euros in the four-race bet of the 9th race (Equalisation IV, 1,700 m).

14 in the Epsom Derby

Epsom, Saturday, 3 June: 14 horses are under order today in the English Derby (2nd race/14.30 h/1.6 million Euro/2423 m). Last year`s winner was Desert Crown from the stable of Sir Michael Stoute, who once again saddled a promising candidate in Passenger (Richard Kingscote). In the dress rehearsal in the Dante Stakes (Group 2), it was enough for fourth place behind The Foxes (Oisin Murphy) and White Birch (Colin Keane), who were fighting for the victory. The betting market sees Auguste Rodin (Ryan Moore) from the Aidan O`Brien stable as the new Derby hero, although he was a glaring disappointment in the 2000 Guineas. He won twice at Group level the previous year. Charlie Appleby and Godolphin are well placed with Military Order (William Buick). They easily won the Derby Trial on the all-weather track ahead of Waipiro (Tom Marquand). Arrest (Frankie Dettori) was lone class in the Chester Vase (Group 3). Running for Juddmonte, the three-year-old defeated Adelaide River (Seamie Heffernan) by six and a half lengths. Sprewell (Shane Foley) will get plenty of encouragement as an Irish Derby trial winner. Dubai Mile (Daniel Muscutt) held on creditably to finish fifth in the 2000 Guineas. San Antonio (Wayne Lordan) enters with a fresh List win.

Saturday in Mannheim with many track specialists

Mannheim, Saturday, 03 June: June starts in German gallop racing on Saturday with an event in Mannheim. Between 2 p.m. and 5:05 p.m., seven tests will be held here. It is the third racing day in 2023 and many track specialists are taking part.

In the Equalisation III over 1,400 metres, Tech Attack (A. v. d. Troost) could hold on to the victory on the home track. However, the recommendations of Repute (J. Bojko) look very good. A four-way bet with a 10,000 Euro guaranteed payout is also on offer., In the 5th race (Equalisation IV, 1,400 metres) this sum will be played out. Especially Tommorah (J. Boyen) could find it easier than last time.

Group 2 riding in Vincennes

Paris-Vincennes, Friday, 2 June: Saddle trotters are in focus today on the Plateau de Gravelle. In the Prix Lavater (2nd race/19.33/120.000 Euro/2700 m) four-year-old mares and stallions are addressed. Jasper des Charmes (Eric Raffin) pulled off brilliantly in the Prix Henri Balliere (Group 2) as second to J`Adore (Alexis Collette) and should take the win. Just Lovely (Alexandre Abrivard) earned her oats in smaller tasks so far, but showed that she can also hold her own at today`s level. Junon du Leard (Paul Philippe Ploquin) and Jelyson (Adrien Lamy) have been in quite different battles, but are currently in a slump of form.


The one-year-old is under order in the Prix Victor Cavey (4th race/20.25 pm/120,000 Euro/2700 m). Judging by the result in the Prix Jean Gauvreau (Group 2), Intuition (Adrien Lamy) cannot avoid being the favourite. In second place she was better than Inbreed (Alexis Collette), Ina du Rib (Jean Dersoir) and Idea des Vallons (Guillaume Martin), who are also eligible for a better placing. Ies We Kann (Eric Raffin) and Inshore (Alexandre Abrivard) convinced in the Prix Louis Forcinal (Group 2).

Start to the Derby Festival with Tünnes

Epsom, Friday, 2 June: The Derby Festival at Epsom starts today with a seven-race programme. First highlight is the Coronation Cup (3rd race/16.10/445,000 pounds/2420m), in which Peter Schiergen`s Tünnes (Rene Piechulek) will start as an outsider. The Group 1 winner and Japan Cup ninth-placed Westover (Rob Hornby), who finished a strong second in the Dubai Sheema Classic (Group 1), faces him. Emily Upjohn (Frankie Dettori), Hurricane Lane (William Buick) and Point Lonsdale (Ryan Moore) are other quality opponents who could take the win at any time.


Eleven fillies are competing in the English Oaks (5th race/5.30pm/550,000 pounds/2420m) to succeed Tuesday from the stable of Aidan O`Brien, who has won the fixture for the last three years and is now reaching for the classic once again with Savethelastdance (Ryan Moore). Be Happy (Seamie Heffernan) and Red Riding Hood (Wayne Lordan) provide support for the mare, who last won at Chester at Listed level. The two fiercest rivals saddle John and Thady Gosden. Soul Sister (Frankie Dettori) and Running Lion (Oisin Murphy) showed their mettle when winning the Musidora Stakes (Group 3) and Pretty Polly Stakes (Listed) respectively. Eternal Hope (William Buick) from the Godolphin quarter of Charlie Appleby brings a success from Lingfield over Be Happy.

Eight races in Longchamp

Longchamp, Thursday, June 1: An ordinary eight-race card goes over the stage today in Longchamp. Excitement will be provided by the Prix Samos (7th race/20.50pm/23,000 euros/1600m), a category `3` test with 14 competitors. Among them is Becassio (Theo Bachelot), trained by Sascha Smrczek for the Grafenberg stable. This year the Guilian son had a mediocre performance. So far, he has finished fourth in Cologne and Chantilly. In the favor of the betting public is Pascal Bary`s Tanabata (Stephane Pasquier), who ran very well in Fontainebleau as second and should leave the Maiden class soon. The Chosen One (Delphine Santiago), Raven`s Spirit (Marie Velon) and Elymas (Guillaume Guedj-Gay) are in good form and priced for a top spot. Forest Of Wisdom (Bauyrzhan Murzabayev) and Seagali (Mickael Barzalona) showed approaches. Maybe they will make it to the trifecta.