CAGNES-SUR-MER - 19th January Trainer of the day : Didier & Pauline Prod'homme (111, 205, 404) Jockey of the day : Christophe Soumillon (101, 202, 402, 602) Horse of the day : Heroïne (305) Dark Horse : Easterburg(115) Race 1 1. ALI SPIRIT - Solid recent form and top-jockey booked. Makes a lot of appeal 2. BLACK NIGHT - Not much room for maneuver off this mark and has only an outside chance 3. ALFIERI - Won a Quinte last summer at Deauville but has been in mixed form since then 4. KAYENNE - Consistent mare that has a good record over course and distance. Enters the equation 5. APRILIOS - Can run well fresh and is from an on-form yard. Looks interesting on return to action
6. ARVIOS - Got back in the game at Deauville last month and has every chance if capable of reproducing this effort 7. EQUILADY - Appears to have her work cut ou in a race like this and best to look elsewhere 8. COMEDIA ERIA - Won a Quinte last summer on turf but 5 pounds worst now and has a bit to find 9. LE REBEL - Very modest recent form and unlikely to trouble the judge in a race like this 10. KENFAY - Four pounds above last winning mark. Poor recent form and best to watch 11. XOTIC - Erratic but capable on a good day and cannot be excluded of the equation 12. VERMIX - Not much room for maneuver off this mark and best to look elsewhere 13. BLACKSOU - Very consistent sort on fibresand but has a four pounds penalty to defy and needs to up his game 14. MATKEN - Boasts a sound record over course and distance. Returns from a three months break but likely to be ready 15. EASTERBURG - Has been running well of late but in lesser division and needs to up his game 16. MILLENIUM PARK - Won two small handicaps on turf last summer but has subsequently lost his form 17. FURIOUS DES AIGLES - Blows hot and cold but has run well here in the past and cannot be excluded of the equation 18. ITS ALL CLASS - Disappointed last two starts and needs to show vast improvement to feature in a race like this Summary (1) ALI SPIRIT is a very consistent horse in the handicap/ claimings division and with the help of Christophe Soumillon he can get back in the winners box today. (6) ARVIOS displayed a very promising effort last time out at Deauville and is expected to win a race like this soon or later. With blinkers again today (15) EASTERBURG is another to consider. Watch for (11) XOTIC who always runs well at this time of the year. Selections
(1) ALI SPIRIT - (6) ARVIOS - (15) EASTERBURG - (11) XOTIC - (4) KAYENNE - (5) APRILIOS - (3) ALFIERI - (17) FURIOUS DES AIGLES
Race 2 1. ULTRA PETITA - Modest debut run on fibresand last November. Needs to up her game significantly 2. VIRIDORIX - Ran well in defeat at Clairefontaine last October. Big expectations today 3. CHARNOCK RICHARD - Experienced individual whose last run on fibresand is encouraging. Not out of it 4. MAGNETIQUE - Not sighted on debut on fibresand last November and needs to show marked improvement 5. CABALEIRO - Made promising debut at Saint-Cloud last November. Looks capable of going off the mark 6. ARRIVISTE - Two modest runs so far. Returns from a 4 1/2 month absence and will need the race 7. BERNIE - Runner-up in a claimer last month at Toulouse. Things look tougher here today 8. LEGACY - Has shown some ability in Germany last year. Watch betting on first run on french soil 9. ZIVERI - Not disgraced when fourth of eight on debut at La Teste last summer. Can be in the mix 10. FLATTER BERE - Has demonstrated ability in two starts in Ireland last year and looks a plausible candidate 11. FIRST DES SOURCES - Two solid efforts on both turf and fibresand last year. Cannot be excluded of the equation Summary (2) VIRIDORIX pleased when runner-up in a competitive maiden at Clairefontaine last October. He subsequently ran a much better race than placing shows on fibresand at Deauville and is taken to go off the mark. (5) CABALEIRO was not beaten far on his debut race and finished in front of a subsequent maiden winner on this occasion. Selections (2) VIRIDORIX - (5) CABALEIRO - (10) FLATTER BERE - (9) ZIVERI
Race 3 1. PRINCESSCHOPE - Has shown ability in four starts on fibresand and cannot be ruled out 2. DANCING QUEEN - Never a factor on both starts to date and unlikely to pose a threat 3. NICE GLORY - Two good runs on turf thus far and looks a sound place contender once again 4. JURISPRUDANCE - Capable sort in the claiming division but has too much to find in a race like this 5. HEROINE - Not beaten far on debut race at Bordeaux last September. Must be respected 6. JULLOUVILLE - Good first run when third of ten on debut at Toulouse last November. Will come on for the race 7. PERLE ET OR - Three modest runs thus far. Off since 28 August. Not an obvious choice 8. SAVE THE DATE - Experienced filly that has shown some capabilities and cannot be discounted 9. DIE RAKETE - Modest form and is unlikely to go off the mark in a race like that 10. OYKEL - Down the field in debut race on fibresand at the end of November. Has too much to find Summary Jean-Claude Rouget has a good record under these conditons at this track and his filly (5) HEROINE could be the pick. She will lead the charge ahead of (6) JULLOUVILLE who ran well first time out at Toulouse last year and is likely to show some progress. (3) NICE GLORY and (8) SAVE THE DATE are not without ability and can also be considered. Selections (5) HEROINE - (6) JULLOUVILLE - (3) NICE GLORY - (8) SAVE THE DATE
Race 4 1. SENOVILLE - Has shown ability in condition races and must be respected on first handicap bid 2. PIMPINEHORSE - Consistent sort who has made promising debut in this division last time 3. COOL THE JETS - Lightly-raced. On a fair mark on handicap debut and must be worth a look in 4. NOSDARGENT - Has shown signs of ability last year. Yard always has to be respected in this category 5. ALETS - Sound winner on fibresand last time at Marseille. Has a four pounds penalty to defy 6. NOT A LADY - Finished second of 18 on handicap debut at Saint-Cloud last November. Has to be respected 7. STROMBOLI - Very useful in the claiming division but things look a bit tougher today 8. COLLEVILLE - Well held on handicap debut at Deauville last month. Two pounds down but still has a bit to find 9. SPIRIT TANGO - Has placed off higher mark last year and cannot be excluded of the equation 10. GREY QUEEN - Not disgraced on handicap debut at Deauville last month but has a few lengths to find to win 11. JOJOVA - Has shown some ability in maidens and looks on a fair mark on handicap debut 12. LOUP DES STEPPES - Competitive in the claiming division. Well treated on handicap debut 13. MAKENZO - Has shown some capabilities on both turf and fibresand. On a fair mark on handicap debut 14. ATTILIA - Off the mark in Italy last May. Has been struggling in the claiming division lately. Look elsewhere 15. HENRY BRULARD - Very useful in the claiming division. Carries only 48.5 kg and cannot be ruled out for place Summary This is a very open contest and a chance is taken on the lightly-raced (4) NOSDARGENT who makes his debut in handicap after showing some promises in competitive maidens. (1) SENOVILLE's last run is too bad to be true and the
Khozian-trained colt must be given another chance. (2) PIMPINEHORSE is competitive off this mark and should also be included in calculations. Selections (4) NOSDARGENT - (1) SENOVILLE - (2) PIMPINEHORSE - (6) NOT A LADY
Race 5 1. HECTOMARE - Course winner. Competitive off this mark but hasn't won a race for a long time 2. MORTREE - Course winner whose last run at Angers over 3000m is excellent. Must be hugely respected 3. MUMGALA - Back on a competitive mark at present and looks capable of making the frame 4. FAVROS - Struggled in last two starts under this current mark and appears to have his work cut out 5. GRAND GALA - Still two pounds above last winning mark and needs to up his game 6. DANDY RIVER - Never finishes far from the action and should be capable of grabbing a place 7. ZILLION DOLLAR CUP - Won this race two years back. Well beaten in last handicap start but down two pounds and cannot be ruled out 8. WHISKY GALORE - Has long been struggling wth form but loves this ground and can surprise 9. NOTAIRE - Got back in the game in a claimer at Pornichet last time but things look tougher back on turf today 10. URBAN RIVER - Consistent sort who is competitive off this mark but has yet to win a race from ten starts 11. FONTVIEILLE - Returns from a two months break. Good last two runs in the claiming division. Best to monitor in the betting 12. LATIN CHARM - Not sigheted on comeback run at Chantilly a fortnight ago. Best to watch Summary (2) MORTREE is a proven sort over this kind of trip. She is very competitive under this conditions and looks the one to beat. Veteran (7) ZILLION DOLLAR CUP is still capable at the age of ten and will be ground-suited. (11) FONTVIEILLE is well-weighted and could be worth some consideration. Topweight (1) HECTOMARE is not out of it for a place. Selections (2) MORTREE - (7) ZILLION DOLLAR CUP - (11) FONTVIEILLE - (1)
HECTOMARE
Race 6 1. SHANAWEST - Solid recent form and looks set to resume winning ways. The one they all have to beat 2. VENT DU LARGE - Disappointing last run on fibresand but should show a totally different figure back on turf today 3. VADANOR - Has gone down in the weights. Always runs well over this course and distance. Can pop-in 4. DOUBLY MOTIVATED - Not without ability. Better than last run suggests and can bounce back 5. REBEL LIGHTNING - Possibly better on fibresand but top-jockey in the irons and cannot be ruled out 6. EZPELETAKO - Never finishes far from the action and looks interesting if ground gets really testing 7. CHUCK SPORT - Won a handicap on turf last November but has gone cold in two subsequent starts 8. GREENSHOE - Went through a purple patch last spring but has gradually lost his way since 9. SPOTTED CAT - Hasn't done anything of note for months and can confidently be passed over 10. CREACH LIGHT - Lightly-raced. Looked promising last year and is not in without a shout 11. ALI ALEXANDRA - Best to forget last run. Very capable off this mark. Stamina is questionable though 12. PASSEPORT - Won a handicap on fibresand last November but has been in mixed form since 13. QUEEN AGDAL - Won a handicap at Compiegne last June but has lost her form since then 14. RED SERENADE - Looks competitive off this new mark. Top-local jockey in the irons. Respect 15. MAGIC MAC - Got back in the game on fibresand at Deauville last month and expected to confirm 16. INTENSICAL - Has yet to make his mark in the claiming division on fench soil. Hard to fancy on french handicap debut and best to look elsewhere 17. BERET - Not withjout ability but erratic and seldom wins races. Not a priority 18. PRINCE DE PERSE - Very consistent horse in this division. Chances will be enhanced by soft ground
Summary Trainer Nicolas Caullery has had a good start of the meeting and (1) SHANAWEST could bring him another success. She has been knocking on the door in recent starts and has already run well at this course before. (2) VENT DU LARGE's last two runs on turf are excellent and the son of Shakespearean is expected to leave behind his last below-par effort on polytrack. Watch for both (6) EZPELETAKO and (15) MAGIC MAC. Selections (1) SHANAWEST - (2) VENT DU LARGE - (6) EZPELETAKO - (15) MAGIC MAC - (3) VADANOR
Race 7 1. SPIRIT OF TEOFILO - Good last effort on fibresand and looks competitive off this mark. Player 2. DON TOMMASINO - Hasn't done anything of note for a long time and can be passed over 3. ZIA MELODY - Solid recent form and looks a sound winning prospect back on turf today 4. CAUFIELD - Erratic horse but down in the weights and can be in the mix 5. MESONERA - Obvious lack of consistency but must be very competitive off this new mark and can pop-in 6. BOYWAY CERISY - Still four pounds above last winning mark. Modest last two runs. Look elsewhere 7. EL VALLE - Has long been struggling with form and is unlikely to trouble the judge at the finish 8. ESTARQUEFIGUE - Not sighted on both starts since returning from a lengthy break. Hard to fancy 9. BLACK PRINCESS - Tends to run well over this course and distance. On a fair mark at present and can surprise 10. COLOR CODE - Has done nothing of note in nine starts since back in action last September. Hard to make a case 11. MOLESNE CHOP - Won a handicap off higher mark last summer at Vichy but has since lost his way 12. STERLING LINES - Has run well of late on fibresand. Very capable on turf too and must be respected 13. VOYAGER - Showed better intentions in last run on fibresand and could be the surrpise package 14. PASSIOR - Modest recent form but has gone down in the weights and can obviously do better 15. OBSESS WITH FAME - Not the most consistent but capable off this mark and is not out of it 16. PUCE DU RHEU - Very modest recent form. Course and distance winner though. Hard to like 17. KASKARAU - Disappointed last two runs but previous form is good enough to see him grab a cheque here 18. DOBBY FIRST - Two good runs on soft turf last November. On a fair mark and cannot be written off
Summary (3) ZIA MELODY has been on a good run for the past few months and should be respected while switching back on turf. She will be retained ahead of (1) SPIRIT OF TEOFILO whose last run is excellent and (9) BLACK PRINCESS who tends to go well over this course and distance and is on a fair mark at present. Selections (3) ZIA MELODY - (1) SPIRIT OF TEOFILO - (9) BLACK PRINCESS - (14) PASSIOR - (17) KASKARAU
VINCENNES - 19th January Trainer of the day : Christian Bigeon (308, 602, 715) Jockey of the day : Franck Nivard (506, 613, 809, 912) Horse of the day : Ferreteria (812) Dark Horse : Foudre Dairpet(103) Race 1 1. FELINE DE LAVAU - Racecourse debutante from a small stable. Has a top jockey on board but still not easy to like 2. FIERTE CASTELETS - Filly from a decent stable making her debut. Qualified respectably but cannot be considered a leading candidate 3. FOUDRE DAIRPET - Untried sort whose origins suggest she should take well to this code. Qualified smartly last summer and must be respected 4. FUREUR DE BEYLEV - Well-related filly making her career debut and if as good as her pedigree can make her presence felt 5. FASCINANTE HUB - Disqualified in both racecourse appearances to date and needs to reassure before generating any interest 6. FENDIE DU VARLET - Moderate sort that was sanctioned early on ridden debut and unlikely to shake things up this time either 7. FINDY DU JONC - Unplaced in all three outings to date and can be confidently passed over 8. FUNNY CLEMAXELLE - Well-beaten fifth of seven in a Class B here last week. Drops back in category but still not an obvious choice 9. FIERTE DE LARRE - Complicated sort but has ample ability and can play an important part if she can maintain stride 10. FIONA D'ATOUT - A well-beaten third behind (12) FYLLA DU GOUTIER on ridden debut a fortnight ago. Will have come on for the run and can finish closer this time 11. FARDECHOISE - Has shown promise under harness. Switches code for the first time and looks a player 12. FYLLA DU GOUTIER - Made a superb start to her ridden career here two weeks ago and looks eminently capable of opening her account this time around Summary
After two good efforts under harness (12) FYLLA DU GOUTIER got her ridden career off to a fine start on the short course two weeks ago and a similar effort should get her off the mark. (10) FIONA D'ATOUT was a long way off in third that day but can make up some ground although she may first have to see off the tricky (9) FIERTE DE LARRE who has looked a very promising sort to date. (11) FARDECHOISE has respectable references in the other discipline and looks a reasonable place chance on ridden debut. Selections (12) FYLLA DU GOUTIER - (9) FIERTE DE LARRE - (10) FIONA D'ATOUT - (11) FARDECHOISE
Race 2 1. COLUMBO RENKA - Got his claiming career off to a good start over longer here earlier in the month. Has the inside line but can still get a look in 2. CLICHE MESLOIS - Delicate but can trot. Barefoot for just his second start back and with application should not be far from the action 3. CASDAR D'AUVILLIER - Showed improvement to trot fourth in the race of reference. Has a good spot on the front line and should again acquit himself competitively 4. CASBAH WOOD - Courageous fifth last month over course and distance. Drops down the class ladder but a minor place chance at best 5. COSMOS PERRINE - Has looked a different horse since the autumn. Flew up over a similar distance here on Christmas day and is well placed to repeat 6. CHAUD DEVANT - Good consistent sort that finished fifth to (5) COSMOS PERRINE late last month on claiming debut but could well make the frame this time 7. CALICOT DU VIVIER - Useful trotter that takes a big dip in class and having already proven himself here should be able to win this 8. CHIPEUR DU RELAIS - Handy type when applied. Was not disgraced here earlier in the month but still needs to raise his game 9. CHEIKH DE RETZ - Has shown more under the saddle in recent months and will have little to offer 10. CASH DES ANGLES - A complete write-off for the past 1.5 years and offers no hope 11. CETTE NOBLESSE - Respectable on a good day but disappointing in last two and must reaffirm 12. CAPRIUS - Form has regressed significantly since winning at Mauquenchy last September and can be passed over 13. CALINE TURGOT - Sixth to (5) COSMOS PERRINE here last month but starts on the second line this time and not a priority Summary (7) CALICOT DU VIVIER can show a lack of discipline but he has gone close in his last two under harness. He has already won over track and trip and can repeat. (5) COSMOS PERRINE however looks the principal danger given how well he won over the distance on the short course late last month. The consistent (6) CHAUD DEVANT should logically improve on his fifth that day and turn the tables on (3) CASDAR D'AUVILLIER.
Selections (7) CALICOT DU VIVIER - (5) COSMOS PERRINE - (6) CHAUD DEVANT - (3) CASDAR D'AUVILLIER
Race 3 1. BELLAGIO FEAT - Previously showed promise but regularly endures stride problems and will not be easy to back 2. BOCOGNANO - One of the least productive horses here. Sanctioned on only ridden start and no threat 3. BOY OF GOD - Respectable type but has looked very ordinary at Vincennes for some time and over the outer course will be tested 4. BILL DES COUPERIES - Hardy campaigner in the specialty. Drops back in class after a failed attempt in a Class A recently and looks more competitive this time around 5. BERLIOZ GRIFF - Handy sort for the most part. No closer than sixth to (8) BABY BARBES last time but in this contest could still make the first five 6. BEATBOX - Winner of two from five under the saddle. Yet to sparkle this winter and will need to raise his game 7. BRACO DES MOISSONS - Solid in four of his last five races. Finished runnerup to (10) BINGO MADRIK last time and can again figure prominently 8. BABY BARBES - Fine sort that has turned a corner since going barefoot. Good second over course and distance late last month and can play a leading role 9. ARIOSO RANAIS - Useful in the provinces and while yet to make his mark at Vincennes can still put on a good show 10. BINGO MADRIK - Got back in the game when winning at Cabourg late December and in similar form can play a part 11. ARMANY D'HERMES - Very delicate individual that has done nothing of note for some time and can be ruled out 12. BINGO CASH - Not the most dependable of horses. Reassured somewhat on the inner course last week but still not easy to trust 13. BYRH GEDE - Useful trotter that has enjoyed a relatively good meeting so far. Tends to go better on the inner track but after a short breather could still win this 14. BIENTOT JENILOU - Decent sort that has made his mark in the claiming division. Steps up in class but has a good entry and can play a role Summary (13) BYRH GEDE got his winter meeting off to a fine start and although less effective in his last two he has had time to freshen up and with hind shoes off
looks the horse to beat. He is sure to encounter opposition from the tough (8) BABY BARBES who would have won last time had he not hung so much. (4) BILL DES COUPERIES drops significantly in class and can be brought back into the fold. (9) ARIOSO RANAIS reassured at Nantes late last month and will be associated with a talented apprenctice for the occasion. Selections (13) BYRH GEDE - (8) BABY BARBES - (4) BILL DES COUPERIES - (9) ARIOSO RANAIS
Race 4 1. ALEX DES CHAMPS - Has not been at his most productive in recent months and can be ruled out 2. BELLO NICO - Just second start following a long layoff and unlikely to trouble the judge 3. BAGDAD - Runner-up in his last four starts. Makes Vincennes debut but will be one to note all the same 4. VOICI LE BOMO - Hardy sort at this level of competition. Somewhat below-par behind (6) BUENO VERDERIE last time but shoes back on and rehabilitation expected 5. BAOTOU - Has hardly set a foot wrong since the autumn. Won a similar event at Vire with ease last time and from the front line looks a serious player 6. BUENO VERDERIE - Has been acquitting himself honourably of late. Runnerup in an amateur event over the short course last time and can well pick up a small stake 7. ALESIA DES BORDES - Rarely far from the action in this class of event but Vincennes not her favourite venue 8. BLUES DES MATELOTS - Won three on the trot before being sent for a spell. Second start back after finishing sixth to the good Balfour late December and from the front line can make a big impact 9. BAVARIO DE BEYLEV - Often a question of all-or-nothing. Reassured at Nantes last month and if applied can go close 10. BE GOOD - Currently enjoying a respectable run of form but the extra 25m will do him no favours 11. A NICE COOL - Completely out of the picture since returning to competition and offers little hope 12. VAS Y MELJAC - Decent sort that pleased in his last two amateur events. Is barefoot this time and will have his supporters 13. VERY MOSSA - Erratic type that has raced very modestly of late and can be ruled out 14. ANGEL D'OR - No stranger to success in this category. Currently in superb form and takes a big dip in class with every chance of imposing 15. AMERICAN JET - Recently returned following a long absence and expected to need another outing 16. BELLE KATIE - Considerably better sort in the other discipline and not a contender
Summary (14) ANGEL D'OR has nothing to prove at this level of competition and after a solid comeback in better company last month will take some beating. That said (5) BAOTOU has done everything asked of him in recent months and the 25m advantage stands him in good stead. (8) BLUES DES MATELOTS gave a fine account at Cabourg first start back and looks competitive in this class. (9) BAVARIO DE BEYLEV has a good entry on the front line and with application can complement his recent Nantes victory. (12) VAS Y MELJAC incurs the penalty but is barefoot this time and can make the first five. Selections (14) ANGEL D'OR - (5) BAOTOU - (8) BLUES DES MATELOTS - (9) BAVARIO DE BEYLEV - (12) VAS Y MELJAC
Race 5 1. DIAMANT D'ISQUES - Reassured at Cabourg late December following a modest comeback. In better company this time but could still get a look in 2. DRILLER KILLER - Moderate sort making his re-entry after a long layoff and no realistic chance 3. DISCO D'OCCAGNES - A model of consistency lately. Runner-up to (4) DERNIER TANGO a fortnight ago and although in better company should not be written off 4. DERNIER TANGO - In the frame in the last seven races he has finished. Steps up in class after a good win over 2850m here two weeks ago and will have his supporters 5. DENZO MONTAVAL - A complete write-off for much of last year and must get his house in order 6. DUDU DU NOYER - Consistently productive sort with an excellent record over course and distance. Finished a place behind (13) DYNAMIC DREAM here last time and should again be in the thick of things 7. DIABOLO CASTELETS - Has struggled with stride problems since his return this season and will have few friends here 8. DOCTEUR D'ERABLE - Third to (17) DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE on just his second start back. Hind shoes off for the occasion and should put on a good show 9. DORUS WELL - Handy type but has not been at his most productive recently and others preferred this time 10. DALSHIM DU NOYER - Gives a good account of himself for the most part but will need to improve on his latest effort at the venue 11. DOSSIMO - Seldom far from the action when he can maintain stride. In the frame in both starts over track and trip and going barefoot again will do his prospects no disservice 12. DANDY GEDE - Handy dual-purpose trotter that left a good impression here earlier in the month but still has more to find 13. DYNAMIC DREAM - Complicated sort that failed to fire behind (17) DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE last month but reassured a fortnight later when second over course and distance and looks a player once again 14. DREAM THE BEST - Not the most reliable but trotted an encouraging second to (17) DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE and with hind shoes off this time will again have his chances 15. DREAM OF JIEL - Undeniably capable but disappointing in last two. Returns
from a spell and unlikely to shake things up 16. DORIFORO - Useful type in both disciplines. Returns to harness racing after a respectable effort under the saddle but will have more to find 17. DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE - Surprised when winning on the short course here at 105-1 mid-december. Is well-engaged this time and with shoes off for the occasion could well repeat Summary (17) DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE sprang a massive surprise when winning on the short course here last month at 105-1. Lenoir removes his shoes this time and a repeat is not out of the question. (13) DYNAMIC DREAM ran flat that day but has since reassured over course and distance and looks dangerous. (11) DOSSIMO rarely lets the side down when unshod all four and could complete the trifecta. The consistent (8) DOCTEUR D'ERABLE finished third to the favourite last month and with hind shoes off this time can again play an important part. (6) DUDU DU NOYER boasts a superb record over track and trip and must not be underestimated. Selections (17) DORIAN DE SOUVIGNE - (13) DYNAMIC DREAM - (11) DOSSIMO - (8) DOCTEUR D'ERABLE - (6) DUDU DU NOYER
Race 6 1. EL CHOCLO DE LOU - Delicate but has won two of the three races he has finished and on good behaviour should finish in the mix 2. EL NINIO HAUFOR - Twice a winner from three. Has not been seen out since October but is justifiably well-regarded and would not be here if he was not in with a realistic shout 3. ENRIQUE - Very solid when he can keep his action together but in this field will be facing a stiff test 4. ELBOY STAR - Respectable in the provinces but raced flat on Vincennes debut late December. Hind shoes off for the first time but still has his work cut out 5. ESPOIR DE FLEURY - Showed early promise but disappointing this term and chances limited 6. EL TORO - Lightly raced sort that was sanctioned on return but is confirmed on the outer course and will generate interest 7. ELIXIR DU TRIO - Consistent for the most part. Pleased last time in spite of the sanction and looks competitively well in 8. ELCAPON DE HOUELLE - Winner of two from three to date. Makes his winter debut but has already beaten some good horses and could well strike first time back 9. EJAG - Has ability but lost his way late autumn and will need to reaffirm 10. EAWY D'EOLE - Has never finished closer than fourth under harness and appears to have too much to do 11. EROS DE GODREL - Moderate type that finished a place behind (12) EDDY D'OCCAGNES early January but still has a lot of ground to make up 12. EDDY D'OCCAGNES - Missed out by little for second here earlier in the month and with hind shoes off again can play a small role 13. ECHO DU TRIO - Decent sort that was not disgraced here three weeks ago and should logically go closer this time 14. EMIR DE CHENU - Only once out of the frame when not disqualified. Reassured at Toulouse recently but still not an obvious choice 15. ECLAT DE LAIGNE - Useful type that finished ahead of (13) ECHO DU TRIO here late December and in similar form could pick up a small stake Summary After beating the classy El Santo Haufor last July (8) ELCAPON DE HOUELLE was sent for a break and although not having been since he nonetheless has the
quality to strike on his seasonal return. He can still expect to encounter resistance from the well-regarded (2) EL NINIO HAUFOR who also makes his reentry. Franck Nivard takes over on (13) ECHO DU TRIO and should be able to make the frame this time. (1) EL CHOCLO DE LOU is another promising colt that will have his chances provided he can keep his stride in check. Selections (8) ELCAPON DE HOUELLE - (2) EL NINIO HAUFOR - (13) ECHO DU TRIO - (1) EL CHOCLO DE LOU
Race 7 1. EVIDENT CHARM - Colt with respectable credentials but found wanting behind (9) EUSTACHE at Chartres last time and must show more 2. ENZO D'ARCY - Winner of two from three so far but unraced since late August and expected to need the run 3. ELISEO DAIRPET - Seldom far from the action when applied. Close third at Cabourg late December and with hind shoes off for the first time could pleasantly surprise 4. EQUINIO SPORT - Won smartly at Graignes before being sanctioned here late last month and will have endeared himself to few 5. EDREAM DU COUDRAY - On cracking form since returning from his spell. Steamed up at Cabourg last time and with shoes off again must not be underestimated 6. ENJOY DU VERNET - Winner of two from three since leaving Sweden. Steps up in class but is unshod behind this time and the Goop-factor can never be ignored 7. EN TOI J'ESPERE - Mixes the good with the less good but form not in doubt. Races unshod behind and with Raffin in the wagon can be assured a comeptitive drive 8. EPI D'OR DU VINOIS - Still a maiden from nine but regularly acquits himself well. Comes here fresh but will need to be at his best 9. EUSTACHE - In the frame in two of his last three but must show marked improvement on latest effort here 10. ELECTRIC BLUE - Opened his account at Caen before being sent for a break. After a moderate comeback he benefits from a Lebourgeois drive this time and looks a player 11. ELVEN WINNER - Not the most reliable but has ample ability. Front shoes off for the first time and in this company could make the frame 12. EXTRA DU CHATELET - Has shown considerable ability so far. Unseen for three months though and others preferred 13. ECLAIR DE KEROSAY - Very productive in three of his last four. Latest outing can be ignored but a bit-player all the same 14. ECUREUIL BABOU - Modest individual that is still a maiden after 24 starts and will not be changing his status on this occasion either 15. ESPOIR DU LANGIS - Has looked a quality colt so far. Raced respectably here earlier in the month and with shoes off for the first time should have this in the bag
Summary (15) ESPOIR DU LANGIS has shown considerable promise since his summer debut - he has a superb entry here and with four shoes off for the first time can make this his own. (10) ELECTRIC BLUE began to come good during the autumn and after a conditioning race here three weeks ago will have Lebourgeois at the helm and can expect significant support. (11) ELVEN WINNER is not always in a position to express himself but the removal of his front shoes could prove just the ticket. Eric Raffin takes over on the useful (7) EN TOI J'ESPERE and going unshod behind will do his chances no harm. Selections (15) ESPOIR DU LANGIS - (10) ELECTRIC BLUE - (11) ELVEN WINNER - (7) EN TOI J'ESPERE
Race 8 1. FORTUNA DU NOYER - Untried filly that left quite the impression in qualification last month and if as good in competition should not be far from the action 2. FANTA DIALO - Has looked distinctly ordinary so far and has no realistic chance 3. FERIA D'ANAMA - Disqualified in all three so far and while not devoid of talent must still get her house in order 4. FIONA DE BAILLY - Has yet to show any particular aptitude for the game and can be written off 5. FENOMENA DESBOIS - Handy sort that finished fourth behind (9) FOLIE DE HOUELLE here last time and can again finish in the mix 6. FLAMME DU GOUTIER - Winner of two from three to date. Disqualified on only start here but is a quality filly and should make amends 7. FILIA PIERJI - Moderate fifth in a tangled race over course and distance earlier in the month but still a potential first-five chance 8. FAMILY QUEEN - Took no time making her mark at Vincennes with a solid third in a similar class a month back and once again looks competitively well in 9. FOLIE DE HOUELLE - Left a very good impression in a Class D over 2175m here early January and if she gets the trip will have a part to play 10. FUNNY JOKE - Has ability but still delicate. Looked smart here last time before losing her action but with application will not be far off the mark 11. FREGATE ISLAND - Has looked solid to date. Gave a decent account to finish fifth behind (8) FAMILY QUEEN over shorter here last time and can again make her presence felt 12. FERRETERIA - Pleased on debut before winning a Class D under the saddle by some margin and if ability transitions she will not be easy to oppose Summary (11) FREGATE ISLAND made an encouraging harness debut before scoring in style here under the saddle mid-december and in similar form should be able to trot off with the silverware. She will not be alone though considering how well (8) FAMILY QUEEN has been acquitting herself of late and latterly at the venue. (6) FLAMME DU GOUTIER has looked a classy sort since her victorious debut and can go close if she can keep her action together. (9) FOLIE DE HOUELLE finished second over shorter here earlier in the month and also looks in with a decent shout.
Selections (12) FERRETERIA - (8) FAMILY QUEEN - (6) FLAMME DU GOUTIER - (9) FOLIE DE HOUELLE
Race 9 1. DARIUS DU LOCHEUR - Still a maiden from 13 and in current condition can be ruled out 2. DIAMANT FORGION - Has not once shown any aptitude for the ridden game and will have nothing to offer 3. DIAMANT DE MALAC - Made a modest ridden debut here earlier in the month and unlikely to worry the opposition this time either 4. DJANGO DU JAGUY - A total disappointment since late summer and can be confidently disregarded 5. DALTON NOA - Respectable type that has struggled of late under harness. Makes his ridden debut fully shod and will have few takers 6. DIVIN DES CAILLONS - Completely off the boil since returning to competition in the autumn and has no realistic chance 7. DERBY DEL GREEN - Complicated type but can trot when applied. Steps up in class but will still have his supporters 8. DINO DU CHATEAU - Handy trotter that should be fully fit by now. First association with Matthieu Abrivard and should not be overlooked 9. DEDE DE MONTAURAN - Second on ridden debut over longer here last month. Barefoot again and Raffin has kept faith. Claim 10. DECI DELA - Has done nothing of note since winning at Cabourg three months ago and can be passed over 11. DYNAMIQUE STYLE - Still a handful but has encouraged more than once in this discipline and on good behaviour could get a look in 12. DUCAL VRIE - Picked up second by default over course and distance mid- December. Goes unshod behind for the first time and can again finish in the frame 13. DIEGO FORTUNA - Delicate but has decent references in the specialty. Battled courageously for third last time and can again make his presence felt 14. DARK DREAM - Smashed his personal best winning his maiden ridden event on comeback at Cabourg last month and a similar effort could see him double his money Summary (9) DEDE DE MONTAURAN surprised many when runner-up on his ridden debut here last month. He has had time to freshen up and can have his way provided he adapts to the shorter trip. (14) DARK DREAM imposed in style at Cabourg on
his first outing under the saddle and looks the principal threat. (12) DUCAL VRIE also left his mark here last month and while a well-beaten second that day he can still make the frame. (13) DIEGO FORTUNA can prove tricky but in present condition should be good enough to pick up a cheque. Selections (9) DEDE DE MONTAURAN - (14) DARK DREAM - (12) DUCAL VRIE - (13) DIEGO FORTUNA