VINCENNES - 28th January

Transcription

1 VINCENNES - 28th January Trainer of the day : Sébastien Guarato (308, 309, 302, 518, 507, 612, 903) Driver of the day : Eric Raffin (207, 308, 507, 702, 813, 901) Horse of the day : Dexter Fromentro (105) Dark Horse : Aufor de Mire(605) Race 1 1. DIVINE BEJI - Currently enjoying a rewarding run of form but in significantly better company this time and will struggle to leave her mark 2. DYNASTY PEJI - Won the last three races she has finished but takes a big leap in class and more a minor place chance this time around 3. DAYANA BERRY - Blows hot and cold but caught the eye over shorter here three weeks ago and looks a decent prospect 4. DAIDA DE VANDEL - Has been particularly unproductive this term and can be ruled out 5. DEXTER FROMENTRO - Exceptional since embarking on his new vocation. Has beaten most of the opposition more than once and should logically do so

2 again 6. DARLHEY DU RIB - Seldom disappoints at this level of competition. Is barefoot this time and with application should not be far off the mark 7. DURZIE - Highly impressive last winter but struggled before the break. Unraced since November and will need the race 8. DREAMER DELO - Useful sort that finished third to (5) DEXTER FROMENTRO earlier in the meeting but stays shod and unlikely to shake things up 9. DRAGON D'AVRIL - Particularly solid this winter. Trotted second in the G.II Prix Leon Tacquet earlier in the month and should again make the frame Summary (5) DEXTER FROMENTRO has been as solid as a rock since changing codes this winter and over this trip should be able to trot off with the silverware. The closest thing to competition will come from the useful (3) DAYANA BERRY who gave a solid account of herself over shorter last time and (9) DRAGON D'AVRIL who has finished close in all four this meeting. (6) DARLHEY DU RIB has started to make progress and going barefoot can only enhance her prospects. Selections (5) DEXTER FROMENTRO - (3) DAYANA BERRY - (9) DRAGON D'AVRIL - (6) DARLHEY DU RIB

3 Race 2 1. DANDY DE GODREL - Regularly in the thick of things. Finished runner-up to (3) DIEGO SAUTONNE last time and can again make his presence felt 2. DREAM DARLING - Well-regarded but has raced just once since October. Stays shod and no threat 3. DIEGO SAUTONNE - Won a good Class C with ease here last time out. Unbeaten when unshod behind and a serious player once again 4. DREAM CASH - Hardy sort that has been prepared for this race. Ideally place on the front line and every chance of opening his annual account 5. UN VERO HBD - Solid Italian type but found wanting in good company last time and although well-placed in front will struggle to leave his mark 6. ULTRAS GRIF - Moderate type that seldom disappoints but less effective in last two and must find more 7. SUPER NICE - Pleased in both starts since coming to France. Drops marginally in class and expected to go close 8. DOUM JENILOU - Respectable trotter that always gives his best. Has not been the most threatening lately but will still have his chances 9. UBIMAJOR BI - Has been acquitting himself respectably of late. Drops down a category and should be able to make the first five 10. URBANIO - Handy sort that comes here on a hat-trick but in this company will have his work cut out 11. DREAMBOY AS - Decent trotter at a lower level. Looked ordinary here earlier in the month and has a lot more to find 12. ULISSE D'ASOLO - Italian type with an enviable strike rate but rather disappointing this winter and others preferred 13. MIDNIGHT DREAMER - Has ability but not always on show. Will be fully fit by now and should be thereabouts 14. DIABOLO CASTELETS - Previously a good sort but has totally lost his way and can be written off Summary After putting in a trio of good efforts Bazire gave (4) DREAM CASH an easy prep with shoes on but is barefoot this time around and with a plum spot behind the car is eminently capable of securing this. He will still be opposed by the in-form (7) SUPER NICE who has taken well to Vincennes conditions. (3) DIEGO SAUTONNE has yet to be beaten when racing without hind shoes and after

4 blitzing the opposition last time can put on a good show. (1) DANDY DE GODREL finished runner-up to him that day but is no more than a place chance on this occasion. Selections (4) DREAM CASH - (7) SUPER NICE - (3) DIEGO SAUTONNE - (1) DANDY DE GODREL

5 Race 3 1. VITRUVIO - Excellent Italian colt that secured a G.I before being sent for a spell. Barefoot for his Vincennes debut and looks a player 2. ECU PIERJI - G.I-winning colt that regularly finishes on the tails of (5) ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE. Was not disgraced in the race of reference and can challenge for a spot in the frame 3. ELITE DU RUEL - Trotted third to (5) ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE in the G.I Criterium des 3 Ans but has since failed to confirm and others preferred 4. ELISIONE MAG - Decent filly that regularly gives everything she has. Comes here fresh and from the 4-spot can give this a good go 5. ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE - Undeniably the best of her generation. Has won six of her last seven and was untroubled by others here earlier in the month. Claim 6. ELEGANTISSIME - Dependability not her strong suit but well-regarded all the same. Front shoes off for the first time and should redeem herself 7. EASY DES RACQUES - Faithful for the most part and has beaten the likes of (2) ECU PIERJI but unthreatening in last two and a minor place chance at best 8. VIVID WISE AS - Classy Italian colt that makes his first start for the Guarato camp. Is drawn wide but goes barefoot for the first time and expected to play a leading role 9. ERIDAN - Can prove a handful but has talent in spades. Finished runner-up to (5) ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE in the Prix de Tonnac-Villeneuve three weeks ago and can again go close 10. VARIETA'LUIS - Decent colt but regularly shows a lack of discipline. Unraced since early November and appears outclassed 11. VOLTAIRE GIFONT - Handy Italian sort that finished 5th to (6) ELEGANTISSIME in a G.III on her only start here but is unlikely to repeat 12. ELISEO - Showed considerable ability last spring but has not been seen out since and will have nothing to offer Summary (5) ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE has nothing to prove at this level of competition and after securing four group races in succession she will take some beating. The new Guarato arrival (8) VIVID WISE AS has been well talked up and if he can adapt to the Vincennes profile should be able to give the former a run for her money. When applied (9) ERIDAN is never far from the action and it would be foolhardy to imagine he could not win this. (2) ECU PIERJI has finished out of the first two just once since late summer and can also play a major role.

6 Selections (5) ERMINIG D'OLIVERIE - (8) VIVID WISE AS - (9) ERIDAN - (2) ECU PIERJI

7 Race 4 1. BILLY DE LA CALADE - Delicate sort but can trot. Reassured in a Class A here three weeks ago but still needs to find more 2. CHABLIS D'HERFRAIE - Very hard to knock when racing unshod behind. Beat some good horses in the G.II Prix Joseph Lafosse last month and from the front line can play a leading role 3. ARIANE DE CAPONET - Not once out of the first four since late summer. Is barefoot for his first steps under the saddle and must be respected 4. EL CATWALK - Respectable for the most part since the autumn but will need to improve on her fifth place to (9) ARLINGTON DREAM a fortnight ago 5. BE MINE DE HOUELLE - Unable to recapture last winter's form and will again have nothing to offer 6. VOLCAN D'OCCAGNES - Has not once made the frame since December 2016 and not a realistic proposition 7. VAQUERO DU MONT - Has made no impact on the track for the past seven months and can be ruled out 8. VRAI VOYOU - Runner-up to (9) ARLINGTON DREAM in his last two outings. Is 25m better off this time and can make a big impact 9. ARLINGTON DREAM - Won this event twelve months ago. Winner of both races when unshod this winter and although on the second line still looks the pick of the field 10. VELOCE DU BANNEY - Has enjoyed a very good run this winter. Latest blip can be ignored and despite the penalty can still give a competitive account 11. UPPERCUT DE MANCHE - Pleased over the summer but has since lost his way and the extra 25m does nothing to help his plight Summary When (9) ARLINGTON DREAM can stay in stride he is never easy to beat and given how well he won here two weeks ago should be able to overcome the 25m penalty. (8) VRAI VOYOU finished runner-up to him in his last two and the front line start will only work in his favour but he may first have to see off the reinvigorated (2) CHABLIS D'HERFRAIE who is unshod behind for the occasion. (10) VELOCE DU BANNEY breaks from the back line but in present condition can still put on a good show. Selections

8 (9) ARLINGTON DREAM - (2) CHABLIS D'HERFRAIE - (8) VRAI VOYOU - (10) VELOCE DU BANNEY

9 Race 5 1. TONY GIO - Comes here off the back of a third place in a G.III at Cagnes earlier in the month. Does not have the credentials to line up in a race of this quality but his participation will please his owners 2. BRIAC DARK - Earned his berth when third in the Prix de Bourgogne following a brace of re-entry runs. Put on a good show to finish fifth here last year and should not be far off the mark 3. CHARLY DU NOYER - After qualifying in the Prix de Bretagne he went on to finish third to (8) READLY EXPRESS in the Prix Tenor de Baune. Unplaced when shod for the Prix de Belgique but will be considerably more competitive when barefoot this time 4. CARAT WILLIAMS - Connections hesitant about his participation in the Prix d Amerique. Was still not a beaten horse when faulting in the Prix de Belgique. Head and shoulders above his own generation in 2017 and while unlikely to win on Sunday should nonetheless do himself justice 5. RINGOSTARR TREB - Fine third to (16) BIRD PARKER in the Prix du Bourbonnais but did not have the best of trips in the Bourgogne. He still has ground to make up on some of the others and chances seem limited 6. BOOSTER WINNER - Has done nothing noteworthy since late summer and looks to have a mountain to climb on this occasion 7. VALKO JENILAT - Enjoyed something of a renaissance in 2017 and secured the Prix de Bretagne earlier in the winter. He may not be made of the same stuff as the favourites but is still a candidate that must be taken seriously 8. READLY EXPRESS - Exceptional Swedish trotter that has won 20 of his 24 races. Secured the Prix Tenor de Baune in style followed by a remarkable third in the Prix de Belgique when surprisingly kept back until the latter part of proceedings and must be considered one of the leading contenders 9. BELINA JOSSELYN - Runner-up to Bold Eagle in Has not had the most rewarding of preparations since returning to competition mid-october but will race barefoot this time and if Jean-Michel Bazire can work his magic she should figure prominently in the final stages of the race 10. PROPULSION - High-class Swedish sort that finished fourth here last year. Skipped the Prix de Belgique after getting the better of (18) BOLD EAGLE in the Prix de Bourgogne. He has never been as sharp as he is today and will be justifiably sent off well-supported 11. TIMONE EK - Classy trotter with Group 1 form and while he has shown decent aptitude for Vincennes conditions he has never been tested beyond 2450m and will not find this the easiest of challenges 12. LIONEL - Third in the 2017 Prix d Amerique. Unable to express himself in the

10 Prix de Bourgogne. He was not given the toughest of races in the Prix de Belgique and should show improvement 13. VOLTIGEUR DE MYRT - Quality trotter that finished runner-up to Up And Quick in 2015 but has looked very ordinary for the past year and can be written off 14. WILD HONEY - One of the wealthier mares in the race but has failed to fire in either start at Vincennes this winter and in present form will struggle to leave her mark 15. BILLIE DE MONTFORT - Considering how well she has performed over the past ten months she has every right to line up here. While not a top-tier choice she can still give this a good go 16. BIRD PARKER - Bested (18) BOLD EAGLE in the Prix du Bourbonnais and did it again in the Belgique two weeks ago. He has never been as productive as he is at the moment and if he breaks well should play a leading role 17. OASIS BI - Third in 2016 he then failed to make the grade twelve months on. Made a solid comeback at Jagersro mid-month but will have to take his game up a notch in order to make any impact this time around 18. BOLD EAGLE - Winner of the last two editions of the Prix d Amerique he has surprisingly finished runner-up in his last four racecourse appearances. He is however a horse of exceptional quality and if at his peak can win for the third time Summary Although runner-up in his last four races it is hard to imagine (18) BOLD EAGLE will not be at his peak this time and win a third straight Prix d'amerique. (9) BELINA JOSSELYN races barefoot for the first time this season and should confirm her second place last year. (10) PROPULSION and (8) READLY EXPRESS are both high-class individuals and neither is incapable of winning this. (16) BIRD PARKER had the favourite's measure in two of the prep races and with hind shoes off looks dangerous once again. Selections (18) BOLD EAGLE - (9) BELINA JOSSELYN - (10) PROPULSION - (8) READLY EXPRESS - (16) BIRD PARKER - (7) VALKO JENILAT - (2) BRIAC DARK - (5) RINGOSTARR TREB

11 Race 6 1. BON COPAIN - Decent type a level down. Has never finished closer than fifth over the distance here and chances limited 2. DAY OR NIGHT IN - Fine sort with an solid record over the distance. Excellent fifth in the Prix de Bourgogne and is well placed to impose this time 3. APRION - Got back in the game with a fine win over course and distance two weeks ago but a minor place chance at best this time 4. CLARCK SOTHO - Consistently productive type that returns to Vincennes barefoot and from the 4-spot can give this a good go 5. AUFOR DE MIRE - Got back in the game with a good Class A second here late December. Well placed in front and not to be overlooked 6. AMIRAL DU BISSON - Respectable sort but has not been seen out for almost eleven months and poses no threat 7. BAXTER DU KLAU - Has had a short breather since an unlucky run in the GNT final. Races barefoot for the occasion and should figure prominently 8. BAD BOY DU DOLLAR - Has placed just once since last winter and will have nothing to offer 9. BLUES D'OURVILLE - Can prove a handful but has ample ability. Is confirmed over course and distance and will have his supporters 10. ALDERMAN - Showed little in two since returning from a long layoff and will have few takers 11. BOLERO DES VIGNES - Hardy sort that seldom disappoints when applied but unraced for five months and will need the outing 12. CASH AND GO - Unbeaten in three since the beginning of the meeting. Drops back in trip and although on the second line can still play a leading role 13. CHANT DES SIRENES - Handy dual-purpose trotter that has shown more under the saddle of late and will have little to offer over this shorter trip 14. TAKETHEM - Won two on the trot before finishing a surprise fourth in the Prix de Belgique and deserves to take his chances 15. RADIEUX - Went into his break on a modest note. Has not been seen out for 2.5 months and can be passed over 16. ARTHURO BOY - Occasionally trots into the minor places but needs to take his game up a notch 17. GLOBAL RESPONS - Rarely disappoints under these conditions. Left a good impression at Cagnes recently and can get a look in 18. MONTDORE - Put in just one decent effort since the autumn and has no

12 realistic chance Summary (2) DAY OR NIGHT IN has enjoyed a rewarding run here this winter and has nothing to prove over the distance. He impressed in the Prix de Bourgogne late December and is ideally placed in front to win this time. That said (12) CASH AND GO has won all three this meeting and the nature of his recent G.III success augurs well for his chances. (7) BAXTER DU KLAU was given time to freshen up after an unlucky run early December and with a better trip can play an important role. (14) TAKETHEM took many by surprise in the Prix de Belgique and in similar form can play a part. (4) CLARCK SOTHO has been flying all season and must be afforded respect. Selections (2) DAY OR NIGHT IN - (12) CASH AND GO - (7) BAXTER DU KLAU - (14) TAKETHEM - (4) CLARCK SOTHO

13 Race 7 1. IN TOTO SUND - Fine mare with excellent references at home in Sweden. Makes her first start for five months but is barefoot for the occasion and can get straight down to business 2. BLOOMA D'HERIPRE - In cracking form of late. Never figured in the Prix de Belgique but drops down the class ladder and from the 2-spot can make a big impact 3. ROXANNE BAR - Has done nothing noteworthy in either code for some time and chances slim at best 4. ATTAQUE PARISIENNE - Very hard to fault when barefoot and although never having produced the goods over the distance here is clearly on form and perfectly situated behind the car 5. BLUE STORY - Dynamic when racing unshod all four but shoes back on and can be passed over 6. SHARON GAR - Made little impact before being sent for a spell. Barefoot for her re-entry but still not an obvious choice 7. SHADOW GAR - Fine campaigner for the most part. Had little luck here mid- December but is unshod all four this time and should go close 8. AGORA - Very disappointing since returning this winter and has no realistic chance 9. BEAUTE DE BAILLY - Can trot on a good day but out of the picture in last three and must reaffirm 10. GEISHA SUND - Only once out of the first two this winter. Looked ordinary on her only start over the distance here and others preferred 11. CATHY A QUIRA - Surprise third in a G.III over course and distance earlier this month. Was not disgraced over longer next time and should not be ruled out 12. ROBERTA ZACK - Useful transalpine raider that fell foul of the stewards on comeback but with application should give an honest account of herself 13. TRINITY ZET - Well-regarded sort that finished a courageous runner-up to (15) BAULOISE HAUFOR over longer last time and with Nivard at the helm can be assured a competitive drive 14. CALY LOULOU - Useful type that has twice prepped shod. Goes barefoot this time and should acquit herself competitively 15. BAULOISE HAUFOR - Unbeaten from three this winter. Takes a step up in class but still deserves to take her chances 16. TRENDY OK - Serious Italian mare making her Vincennes debut in fine shape. Not blessed by the draw but given her class will be hard to ignore

14 17. TESSY D'ETE - Hardy type but failed to fire in the Tenor de Baune. Not ideally placed on the back line but can overcome with Bazire in the sulky 18. EVIN BOKO - Good Swedish sort making her first visit south but the wide second-line draw will do her no favours Summary It is not often that a horse gets the nod despite not having raced for five months but that is the case for the quality Reden-trained (1) IN TOTO SUND who is barefoot for the first time. Should she fail to live up to expectations (2) BLOOMA D'HERIPRE can step up and make the most of her position on the front line. (4) ATTAQUE PARISIENNE is marginally better positioned in the 4-spot and with shoes off will be no pushover. (7) SHADOW GAR can be forgiven her recent disappointment and can be backed with confident this time. (17) TESSY D'ETE has been handed a tough draw but she can count on Bazire to make the best of her form. Selections (1) IN TOTO SUND - (2) BLOOMA D'HERIPRE - (4) ATTAQUE PARISIENNE - (7) SHADOW GAR - (17) TESSY D'ETE

15 Race 8 1. VENUS GAR - Delicate type but boasts a good strike rate. Stays shod for Vincennes debut and unlikely to influence the result 2. EDITH STYLE - Can prove a handful but undeniably capable. Goes barefoot for the first time and should be able to give this a good go 3. ESQUISSE ROYALE - Confirmed under these conditions but below par in last two and must raise her game 4. VILLEPELEE - Enjoyed a very productive 2017 but unplaced in last two and event though racing unshod in front is still not easy to back 5. ELECTRA WIND - Finished a close third to (12) ESPERANZA IDOLE over the outer course earlier in the month but failed to confirm last Monday and can be passed over 6. VENERE BREED - Respectable Italian filly that has encouraged over the winter. Goes barefoot for the first time and should not be overlooked 7. ECLIPSE DANICA - Serious sort that made a fine comeback at Cagnes. Not up against the boys this time and could get straight back in the game 8. ELENA PRINCESSE - Back on track since going barefoot but in better company this time and no more than a minor place chance 9. EAST ISLAND - Winner of four from seven to date including over course and distance. Left a good impression on the outer course three weeks ago and expected to figure prominently once again 10. EVASION MYSTIC - Has placed just once in last five starts and will need to improve on latest effort 11. ERIKA DREAM - Somewhat delicate but handy all the same. Reassured at Cagnes earlier in the month but others still preferred 12. ESPERANZA IDOLE - Regularly in the thick of things. Came second in a Class B when barefoot for the first time. Same formula and can finish in the money 13. EBELLA AIMEF - Excellent since the beginning of the meeting. Has never failed to fire for Raffin and looks in with a decent shout 14. EPONA DU PASSAGE - Has ability but modest this winter. Unshod all four this time but still not an obvious choice 15. ESTANCIA LOVE - Good consistent campaigner that comes here fresh. Is confirmed under these conditions and must be respected Summary

16 (7) ECLIPSE DANICA showed considerable class last season and made a fine comeback at Cagnes late December. She will only have the same sex to contend with this time and can return to winning ways. Principal opposition is expected to take the form of (13) EBELLA AIMEF who has been flying at Vincennes this winter. The progressive (9) EAST ISLAND has won two of her last three and with hind shoes off again also appears to be in with a decent shout. (2) EDITH STYLE benefits from racing barefoot for the first time and should get back on track. Selections (7) ECLIPSE DANICA - (13) EBELLA AIMEF - (9) EAST ISLAND - (2) EDITH STYLE

17 Race 9 1. FULL OPTION - Has looked a very smart sort so far. Twice acquitted herself well at a better level and looks competitively well in 2. ZIVA EK - Very hard to knock so far. Won the fillies Criterium at San Siro early last month and is well placed to make another big impact 3. FOLLOW YOU - Winner of his only start over the distance here. Finished third in a G.II on the outer course two weeks ago and from the 3-spot can have his way this time 4. FIORELLA DE TED - Hardy type that finished a place ahead of (1) FULL OPTION here mid-month and considering her place on the front line can play a role 5. FRIC DU CHENE - Showed good early promise but disappointing in last two and must reaffirm 6. FRENCH DARLING - Well-regarded filly that got off the mark here last weekend. Up against the boys and more a place chance on this occasion 7. ZIMAN - Consistently productive Italian filly that comes here fresh and although in better company will still have her chances 8. ZIOSAURO JET - One of the best of his generation in Italy. Has a wide draw here but still expected to play a leading role 9. FAST DES BROUSSES - Colt with significant potential. Somewhat below-par last time and drawn poorly here but must not be underestimated 10. FEERIE WOOD - Moderate type that failed to fire on her only start at this level and will struggle to leave her mark 11. ZIRKUSS - Tough sort that has hardly stepped a foot out of line but in this company will have his work cut out 12. ZEPHYRUS BAR - Has some good references in his native Italy. Failed to fire in a G.I last time and a minor place chance at best 13. FORTUNE DU TACO - Winner of two from three to date. Looks a good future prospect and should not be discounted 14. FORCE DU CHENE - Decent trotter but would have a better chance at a lower level and can be passed over 15. ZIBIBBIO MDM - Has shown considerable promise at home in Italy but has not been blessed by the draw and others preferred 16. ZALSHAN AS - Useful transalpine raider that was not disgraced in the Criterium final in Milan early December but will not be helped by the draw this time

18 Summary Already a winner over course and distance (3) FOLLOW YOU has been handed an ideal draw and should be able to win this if he can reproduce his latest G.II performance. Nivard will want to be wary though of the slick Italian (8) ZIOSAURO JET who has been nothing short of impressive to date. (2) ZIVA EK won the fillies Criterium in Milan last time out and can put her speed to good use here. (6) FRENCH DARLING finally made good on her promise last weekend and should again figure prominently. (1) FULL OPTION has the inside line but is a quality filly and should not be far off the mark. Selections (3) FOLLOW YOU - (8) ZIOSAURO JET - (2) ZIVA EK - (6) FRENCH DARLING - (1) FULL OPTION

19 Race VERY SNOB - Regularly gives a good account when unshod but in much better company here and chances limited 2. VIF D'OR BLANC - Decent sort in this branch of the game and presently in good shape. Minor place chance at best though 3. ADORABLE FOUTEAU - Has been acquitting himself well all winter. Is barefoot for the first time this season and should be able to finish close 4. ARTIST KELAU - Regularly gives everything he has. Drops back in class after failing to impress in a G.III and could play a small role 5. ANGE KARLANN - Won four of his last five ridden starts. Solid in last two over track and trip and looks a player once again 6. ALF DE MELANDRE - In good form but has never shown any aptitude for the ridden discipline and can be passed over 7. ASHOKA - Capable type but will need to improve on latest effort here 8. ACTEUR DU HAMEL - Has struggled with form since the autumn and needs to show marked improvement 9. VIVARIO DU BELLAY - Boasts an excellent record under the saddle. Won over course and distance late December and can double his money 10. UN FIRST - Veteran with considerable ability but has struggled with stride problems. If applied however his place is in the money 11. UROS DE L'EXTREME - Nothing noteworthy on his formsheet for the past ten months and can be ruled out 12. UPSALIN DES BAULTS - Takes his first steps under the saddle following a decent effort in the provinces but others still preferred 13. VICOMTE D'HAVANE - Previously a good sort but has lost his way and will need to reassure 14. VERMEER JARZEEN - Completely off the boil for the last two years and no realistic chance 15. VERSO DU JAAR - Went close in a similar event last month and confirmed shortly thereafter. Comes here fresh and will have his supporters 16. AMOUR DU LOUP - Hardy sort with form at a better level. Drops back in class and will legitimately garner significant support 17. URZO DU CAP VERT - Went into his break on a low note and has since picked up where he left off. Disregard 18. VIKING DU PILET - Seldom seen in this code but has good aptitude nonetheless. Has a fine entry here and can get a look in

20 Summary Something of an open event this but a tentative vote goes to (9) VIVARIO DU BELLAY who has been very hard to knock in his last two over course and distance. He can nonetheless expect to feel some heat from the useful (16) AMOUR DU LOUP who drops down from G.III level. (5) ANGE KARLANN has not once disappointed when applied and recent efforts under these conditions have not gone unnoticed. (3) ADORABLE FOUTEAU is unshod all four for the first time this season and is expected to play an active role. The delicate (10) UN FIRST can get a look in if he can keep his action together. Selections (9) VIVARIO DU BELLAY - (16) AMOUR DU LOUP - (5) ANGE KARLANN - (3) ADORABLE FOUTEAU

21 CAGNES-SUR-MER - 28th January Trainer of the day : Yannick-Alain Briand (103, 309, 304, 503, 703, 813) Driver of the day : Yannick-Alain Briand (103, 503, 703, 813) Horse of the day : Fast Domino (105) Dark Horse : Exode Royal(706) Race 1 1. FELINO DE BRY - Inside draw on the first tier. Lacklustre last five outings and is now trained by David Bekaert 2. FULL DATE - Close runner-up on penultimate start over course and distance (1'18'') and has to be highly shortlisted 3. FERNEY VOLTAIRE - 3/4 on the podium since hos debut and is very close to get off the mark. Has already trotted 1'17''3 over course and distance 4. FRANCE DE VALNY - Unraced filly. Average breeding on mare' side. Qualified in 1'19''5 at Caen last September 5. FAST DOMINO - Dismantled the field on his course and distance debut in 1'17''2. The one to beat 6. FLYING MOKO - Showed a glimmer of form (fourth) latest at this track but was well beaten by (3) FERNEY VOLTAIRE 7. FLEUR DE NOUVILLE - Improving nicely every run but looks held by some rivals on class alone Summary (5) FAST DOMINO produced an impressive display when trotting up an easy winner over course and distance here on his debut two weeks ago. He can maintain his unbeaten career start today. (2) FULL DATE was a close second over course and distance here on her penultimate start and looks the main danger. (3) FERNEY VOLTAIRE and (4) FRANCE DE VALNY are next best. Selections (5) FAST DOMINO - (2) FULL DATE - (3) FERNEY VOLTAIRE - (4) FRANCE DE VALNY

22 Race 2 1. DILIGENTE - Has clearly won the least prize-money and was disqualified thrice recently. Difficult to recommend at this higher grade 2. DOTTARUS - Has already shown some abilities but is unpredictable. His trainer is back in the bike 3. DANCER DE NOVA - Remains shod and is driven by an apprentice. Should quietly race for next targets 4. DUO D'ORANGE - Little room for manoeuvre but is unshod behind for the first time and could have more to offer 5. DJOBI D'YMER - Often disqualified but could cause a nice upset if remains in trot. Has already won over course and distance (1'19''1) 6. DARK SIDE - Worth a race like this on class alone and without his shoes but is very complicated with volt starts 7. DIVINE WEAPON - Disqualified on her reappearance run after six months off but is unshod on all four here 8. DENICHEUSE VRIE - Not a model of consistency but has already shown the required ability. Has to run against the males here 9. DICK DES MALBERAUX - Back in harness events where is very complicated to use after two ridden starts. Could quietly race 10. DRAGON ROUGE - Impressive winner last time out over course and distance (1'17''8) without his shoes for the first time. Can strike again 11. DESTIN DE BRY - 2/5 wins unshod on all four and has already scored over course and distance in 1'17''. Beware of him 12. DEAR DANCER - More competitive under the saddle now and is not better without his shoes. Not a priority 13. DARELIA DE FAEL - Steps up in class after claimer disqualification and looks more competitive against sole mares 14. DEFI LUDOIS - Disqualified in the first turn recently at Marseille-Vivaux after two podiums in a row. Can redeem himself 15. DIEGO DE BANVILLE - Bounced back to form recently over course and distance (1'18''3) but in claimer. Now trained by Charles-Antoine Mary Summary (10) DRAGON ROUGE had only his second career win with an impressive display over course and distance earlier this month. That was his first time racing without all four shoes and in similar circumstances today he can win again. (6)

23 DARK SIDE can be unreliable but is capable in this company and must be respected. (4) DUO D'ORANGE and (14) DEFI LUDOIS can make the frame. Selections (10) DRAGON ROUGE - (6) DARK SIDE - (4) DUO D'ORANGE - (14) DEFI LUDOIS

24 Race 3 1. VOYOU DE FANNY - Inside draw on the first tier. In his category but has just been disqualified at the start over course and distance 2. CARINA DU PORHOET - Disqualified thrice recently after gait problems but is moving down in class. Possible upsetter 3. VENISE FOR EVER - Very disappointing for a long time and can be neglected without risks. Only watch 4. BETTY DES OMBRES - Has not put a foot wrong this year and deserves to get back in the winner's circle on her amateur comeback 5. ARTEMIS DU FAUCON - Very complicated to use and has not been placed on the podium since December Not going to be easy 6. BELLE DU GRANIT - Has just got back in the winner's circle with style over Marseille-Vivaux 2675m (1'16''5) just in front of (4) BETTY DES OMBRES 7. BLASON DU VIF - Brave horse who was decent fourth on penultimate start over course and distance (1'16'') behind (9) BERNAZAN 8. ALBINONI - Reassuring fourth latest over course and distance (1'17''1) being totally barefoot. Will try to reproduce same effort 9. BERNAZAN - Inside draw on the second tier. Remains shod but is still behind in earnings at this grade. First-rate chance 10. BOROMIR DE BAZOCHE - Made zero impact for a long time but his connections has travelled from far. Difficult to recommend 11. BORSALINO DEL ANTE - Disqualified in his last eight attempts and can be neglected without risks. Only watch 12. CABALLIS - In dubious form but is moving down in class and could find it easier. Remains shod 13. VELVET PHIL - On the rise and has just been fourth over course and distance (1'16'') in this category and with his amateur 14. CRAC RINGEAT - His last best results were unshod on all four and will find it harder with his shoes Summary A winner of three of his last four races (9) BERNAZAN was runner up in the other one here. He remains shod today but with a decent draw he can continue his excellent form. (6) BELLE DU GRANIT got back to winning ways at Marseille Vivaux six days ago and cannot be ruled out here today. (8) ALBINONI and (4) BETTY DES OMBRES are next best.

25 Selections (9) BERNAZAN - (6) BELLE DU GRANIT - (8) ALBINONI - (4) BETTY DES OMBRES

26 Race 4 1. ALKANA MAXENTAISE - Has won the least prize-money but is not the least talented. Disqualified in her last five starts over course 2. AUSTRALIA ZEN - Romped home seven days ago at this track over 2150m (1'13''9) and can step up in class with success 3. BOCSA DE LESPI - In ascending form after four months off but is again shod. However can't be completely ruled out 4. ANGIE DU HOULEY - In doubtful form but is barefoot and driven by Yannick- Alain Briand. However is not enough 5. ALGUE D'OCCAGNES - In her category against sole mares and is totally barefoot here. Can get placed 6. VIA MALA - Unshod on all four and is the choice of Nicolas Ensch. Has to be highly shortlisted 7. VANIFLOSA GEDE - Model of consistency in this category and has theoretically a first-rate chance but is not the choice of Nicolas Ensch 8. UKRAINE DE BUCY - No room for manoeuvre against younger mares and her best titles are on right-handed tracks. Only a secondary chance 9. BULLE DE LAUMONT - The best on class alone and has not a 25m handicap here. Clearly the one to beat 10. BAILEYSE - Her connections has travelled from far for this targeted race against easier rivals. Only unshod behind here Summary Third here earlier this month (9) BULLE DE LAUMONT was a winner over course and distance here on her penultimate start. She looks the best on class in this race and can record her fifteenth career success. Although disappointing last time out (6) VIA MALA is unshod on all four today and must be respected. (7) VANIFLOSA GEDE and (10) BAILEYSE are next best. Selections (9) BULLE DE LAUMONT - (6) VIA MALA - (7) VANIFLOSA GEDE - (10) BAILEYSE

27 Race 5 1. VIRUS - Reassuring third last time out over course and distance (1'15''3) and will try to reproduce same effort 2. BANCO DE L'ITON - Now trained by Jean-Marie Roubaud after Vincennes claimer victory. Will quietly race here 3. BEAUTIFUL ELDE - Has the benefit of four races under the belt after six months off and is barefoot here. Should soon come back to his best form 4. BOOGIE BOY - Brave horse who has little room for manoeuvre against rivals like theses. More of a secondary chance 5. ULTIMATE LOVE - Ran quite well last two times over course and distance but his best titles are unshod on all four 6. ATOUT DE MONTBRUN - Average seventh for his new stable at Toulouse and is always unshod on all four. Not a priority 7. VINTAGE - Ran better than placings suggest recently and is a podium chance judged on his best titles 8. AZAFRAN - Unconvincing since last December but is unshod on all four here. Beware of him 9. UPPY DE VIVE - Often placed in the shakeup but has not won since March 2016! Unshod on all four once more 10. USTER DES CAILLONS - Remains shod and his trained is back in the bike but is well entered in his category 11. URLANDO BEJI - Model of consistency in Corsica but is off since last October and is stepping up in grade on his Cagnes-sur-Mer comeback 12. APERO DU MIDI - Not placed on the podium since last August. Unshod behind here but not sure will be enough 13. AMERICAN DOLLAR - Not the same without his shoes and has just got back in the winner's circle over course and distance (1'14''2) 14. BEGUIN MESLOIS - Taking time to find his best form after a four months break but is unshod on all four for this perfect entry Summary (13) AMERICAN DOLLAR is at his best racing without shoes which he showed when winning impressively over course and distance here earlier this month. he is the selection to make it career win number ten today. (3) BEAUTIFUL ELDE should be back to full fitness and could be the main danger to the selection. (14) BEGUIN MESLOIS and (8) AZAFRAN can make the frame.

28 Selections (13) AMERICAN DOLLAR - (3) BEAUTIFUL ELDE - (14) BEGUIN MESLOIS - (8) AZAFRAN

29 Race 6 1. ELLA TORRA - Inside draw on the first tier. Clear third latest over course and distance (1'16''1) in front of four of today's rivals 2. EMERAUDE DE BOUGY - Has not stopped improving and has just been easy runner-up over course without her shoes for the first time 3. EXQUISE JENILOU - Brave filly who has never been disqualified since her debut. Will be suited by shorter trip 4. ERA DU PONT - Needs to be judged on her penultimate start over course and distance (1'16''5) which was fourth between (1) ELLA TORRA and (6) ENVOUTANTE DE KACY 5. ELLA VENUS - Has not put a foot wrong since her debut and appears as a solid choice. Off since November ENVOUTANTE DE KACY - Complicated to drive but is unshod on all four for the first time. Improvement is expected 7. ECLIPSE DU DROPT - Quickly disqualified on her reappearance run after five months off and acts better on right-handed tracks 8. ETOILE DES BROUETS - Her best titles are on right-handed tracks and has to prove herself in her new stable but is barefoot for the first time 9. EVER SO LOVELY - Inside draw on the second tier. Off since last August but her connections has travelled from far. Level difficult to evaluate 10. EXTASE DE CARLESS - Often placed in the shakeup but has never been on the podium. Fourth sixth and disqualified with her apprentice 11. ELEGANCE GALA - A second place and five disqualifications since her debut. Suited by car-start but new driver in the bike 12. ELEGANTE MAUVE - Cagnes-sur-Mer specialist who has to raise her current game. Unshod in front here but will be not enough Summary (5) ELLA VENUS is having her first start today since November 27th. She won with a bit hand on that occasion at Marseille Borely and can resume with an another victory here today. The improving (2) EMERAUDE DE BOUGY was runner up here ten days ago and cannot be discounted. (11) ELEGANCE GALA and (1) ELLA TORRA are two more to consider. Selections

30 (5) ELLA VENUS - (2) EMERAUDE DE BOUGY - (11) ELEGANCE GALA - (1) ELLA TORRA

31 Race 7 1. ELIXIR D'OURVILLE - Inside draw on the first tier. Always placed in the first six since his debut and deserves to get off the mark 2. EIGHT - Has not put a foot wrong in his first four races and could be a major player once more 3. ESPOIR DES OMBRES - Disqualified thrice recently after three second places in a row. Totally barefoot for the first time 4. ECLAIR WINNER - Unpredictable gelding who will be suited by car-start and shorter trip. Unshod behind for the first time 5. ESPOIR DE TAVERNA - Easy runner-up recently over course and distance (1'17''5) ahead of three of his today's rivals 6. EXODE ROYAL - Clear third last time out over course after a three months break and could be suited by shorter trip 7. EVEREST DE KACY - Unbeaten in two races and has untapped potential. Off since last May and is now trained by Marc de Cock 8. EHJOE DE TILOU - Disqualified on penultimate start over course and distance but promising fourth since at Marseille-Vivaux against easier rivals 9. ENOUGH TALK - Inside draw on the second tier. Disqualified twice recently but is well-regarded by his trainer. Unshod behind for the first time 10. EPSON DU GERS - Close runner-up latest for his new stable and without his shoes for the first time beating three of today's rivals 11. EPSON DU VIVIER - Has to prove himself in his new stable and disqualified fourth in his last five starts. barefoot for the first time 12. ENJOY MAX - In his category but has little room for manoeuvre. More of a secondary chance 13. EDANO DE VANDEL - Has just got off the mark at this track over 2700m (1'17''6) ahead of (12) ENJOY MAX but higher opposition here 14. EDELWEISS GASSEL - Quite consistent since is trained by Junior Guelpa but looks held by some rivals on class alone 15. ELIOTT DU BELLAY - Disqualified last time out after two podium in a row. Could be outpaced over this shorter trip Summary This just might be the perfect fit for (6) EXODE ROYAL who has looked well blessed with ability and seems to be continuing on an upward curve in a very short career to date. He is screaming potential for the future. (3) ESPOIR DES

32 OMBRES can make it a nice forecast while (7) EVEREST DE KACY and (11) EPSON DU VIVIER look good for the other spots. Selections (6) EXODE ROYAL - (3) ESPOIR DES OMBRES - (7) EVEREST DE KACY - (11) EPSON DU VIVIER

33 Race 8 1. VERDICT D'HONNEUR - Remains shod and driven by an apprentice. Best to watch for next targets 2. ANTOINE DU BOURG - Model of consistency without his shoes and with Nicolas Mortagne. Has just finished in front of four of today's rivals 3. VARIUSO DU BOUFFEY - Honourable fifth last time out for his new stable just behind (2) ANTOINE DU BOURG and (7) VIZIR DES JACQUETS. Has a creditable turn of foot 4. ANOTHER - Maybe exhausted after a lot of races in a row but can't be ruled out without his shoes 5. BINGO D'ATTAQUE - Surprising winner four days ago over course and distance (1'14''7). Will try to reproduce same effort against higher rivals 6. BAYERN - Taking time to find his best form after a four months break and acts better without his shoes. Best to watch 7. VIZIR DES JACQUETS - Fourth twice recently at this track and is unshod on all four once more but looks held by some rivals on class alone 8. AIGLE JENILOU - In ascending form after a sevn months break and is the best chance on the first row. Can front run and go far 9. URSIS DES CAILLONS - Needs to be judged on his penultimate start when was only beaten by talented Uniflosa Bella over course and distance (1'14''7) 10. AMIE D'ANDY - Sixth twice recently after a long dry period and is unshod in front here. Her trainer/driver has travelled from far 11. VITINOU - Perfectly placed on the first line-up and is unshod on all four once more but is not enough for first places 12. VERZASCO - Badly entered on the second row. Not the same without his shoes but is more efficient over shorter trips 13. BOSS DU MELEUC - Unbeaten in two outings unshod on all four and has been carefully prepared for this event 14. UN NUAGE D'OSMOZ - Not a model of consistency but can create great suprise as December 10 victory at Lyon-Parilly ahead of Balbir and Zonguldak 15. BABY LOU MAX - Classy horse who caught the eye on his reappearance run over course and distance (1'13''4) after four months off. Also competitive shod Summary (15) BABY LOU MAX might be the last named on the card but could easily be the first home judged on a very nice preparation outing here last time. The multiple

34 winner of eighteen contests looks poised to send punters home happy. (8) AIGLE JENILOU looks best treated of the others who in turn can be headed up by both (13) BOSS DU MELEUC and (2) ANTOINE DU BOURG. Selections (15) BABY LOU MAX - (8) AIGLE JENILOU - (13) BOSS DU MELEUC - (2) ANTOINE DU BOURG

35 SAINT-GALMIER - 28th January Trainer of the day : Jean Boillereau (106, 604, 605, 601, 813) Driver of the day : Jean Boillereau (106, 411, 508, 604) Horse of the day : Costa Julry (204) Dark Horse : Dow Jones(1) Race 1 1. AMADEUS QUICK - Probably needed both comeback runs but should be getting fitter. Might place 2. UNTIL OAKS - Struggled throughout 2017 and is returning from a break so others are preferred 3. USKA - Not disgraced in last two starts and should make a bold bid at winning this race 4. ACTION FORCE - Holding form well and loves this track. Be right there at the finish once again 5. URSULA DE BEAUMEE - Improved run when third at this track last time out. Could find this distance a bit sharp 6. VERIKA DAIRPET - Needed comeback run but will need to find a few lengths to win this race 7. ATHLETIC CHARM - Disappointing last run. Capable of a lot better and is clearly not out of it 8. VIENS DE CHAMBE - Lightly raced in 2017 and return run was poor. Needs major improvement to win 9. BRIGHT CHARM - Did not win in 2017 and is returning from a break so others are preferred 10. URIANA VOLSIN - Has been struggling recently and needs major improvement to win this race 11. ALORS DE BLEMONT - Has not won for some time and is returning from a break. Might place if fit 12. CROSS DAIRPET - Fair recent form and should be fit enough to be in the shake-up. Place chance 13. ULYSSE DU DEMON - Not disgraced in last two starts. Fit and ready for this and should run very well 14. ULINE DES LINANS - Battling to regain best form and needs to find a few

36 lengths to win this race 15. VERVEINE SOMOLLI - Unreliable but is capable of popping up in the places. Drop in distance could suit 16. BONHEUR DE NAY - Has not won for some time but is capable of playing a minor role. Can upset Summary (4) ACTION FORCE has been in very good form and has won twice recently at this track so is clearly the one they all have to beat. (7) ATHLETIC CHARM was not disgraced at Vincennes in the last two starts so will prefer this track and is likely to be a major threat at the finish. (3) USKA and (12) CROSS DAIRPET have place chances. Selections (4) ACTION FORCE - (7) ATHLETIC CHARM - (12) CROSS DAIRPET - (3) USKA - (6) VERIKA DAIRPET

37 Race 2 1. CYBELE D'HERMES - Recent winner in this discipline recently and must hold a winning chance 2. VEGAN NELGER - Has been struggling in this discipline recently and needs to find a few lengths to win 3. BARBIE PERRINE - Struggling recently but is capable of better and could play a minor role 4. COSTA JULRY - In very good form and is clearly the one they all have to beat. Tries further 5. VALSE MANISTE - Fair last run and must have a place chance in this line-up. Deserves respect 6. URANIE DU MORIN - Has been battling in this discipline and needs to find a few lengths to win 7. VIF DU BOIS JARRET - Only modest form recently but is always capable of popping up in the places 8. VALOIS DE BUSSET - Holding form well and could be suited to this longer distance. Has a chance 9. VICTOR LE FOL - Poor recent form but is capable of better and could finish in the money 10. ANANDA - In good form and does like this track so could contest the finish once again 11. URISTAN DE BRENUS - Has been struggling recently and needs to do more to win this race. Others preferred 12. UN BEAU JOUR - Battling recently and is very unlikely to win this race. Others much preferred 13. UTRINCOT - Battling to regain best form and needs major improvement to win this race 14. URAGANO - Ignore last run. Better this discipline and must have a winning chance. 15. URIAKO DE VILLIERE - Unreliable. Battling to win but is capable of earning some money if at best 16. VELINA - Has not won in some time. Recent form is poor but is capable of an upset 17. UNIQUE D'HUON - Battling to regain winning form and has yet to win in this discipline. Others preferred

38 Summary (4) COSTA JULRY has found his way in this discipline and won twice recently. Under Raphael Volle she should be hard to catch. (8) VALOIS DE BUSSETis doing well and is in a race that should see him be competitive. (10) ANANDA was runner-up last time and could finish in the money. (7) VIF DU BOIS JARRETis also not out of it. Selections (4) COSTA JULRY - (8) VALOIS DE BUSSET - (10) ANANDA - (7) VIF DU BOIS JARRET - (1) CYBELE D'HERMES

39 Race 3 1. CALINE DE MAI CAPO - Fair last two runs. Battling to win but is always capable of earning some money 2. COQUINE LOGE - Returns from a break and has struggled in Others are much preferred 3. CALGARY DU CHALET - Struggled in 2017 but could be returning to some form. Might play a minor role 4. CAESARIA D'ELA - Has yet to win in 39 starts but is capable of finishing in the money if at best 5. CYNTHIA DE FORGES - Won at this course a year ago but has struggled since then. Others preferred 6. COLOMBINE - Has not won for some time and needs major improvement to win this race 7. CALESKA D'HAGUE - Has yet to win a race in 31 starts and needs to find a few lengths to win 8. CALENJA - Battling to win a race. Returns from a break and could need the run. Might place 9. CYRENE SOMOLLI - Very fit but is battling to regain best form and needs major improvement to win 10. CANDY DE JOUDES - Much improved last run. Must be given consideration. Capable of earning money 11. CALL ME VICTORY - Has been struggling for some time now and needs major improvement to win 12. CASSIOPEE DU MEYX - Modest last three runs but is distance suited and does have a winning chance 13. CHARLINE LADY - Loves this course and distance and could be the one they all have to beat 14. CHIPS DE BOURGOGNE - Did win latest but is returning from a break so may lack for fitness. Can place 15. CYBELE DU VAL - In good form and is distance suited. Could get involved with the finish 16. CRAPULE DE MORGE - Battling to regain best form but has the ability to earn some money in a race like this 17. CARLITA PAJELO - Did very well in 2016 but struggled Is returning from a lengthy break