Analysis & Selections by

  Christopher Iles & .t.h.e. .r.o.o.k. 

Whether it be "the race of the day" or a small prize round the gaffs, we will attempt to use our knowledge of the formbook to highlight the fancied horses participating each day and their characteristics and requirements. Hopefully this 'second opinion' provides you with a winner or two each day, or even reinforces your own view on a particular may even convince you to back some of those horses which we feel are the "ones to fear", or have decent eachway claims. whichever is the case, we hope the information is of use to you.

STATISTICS- 2002 
Whilst there is a lull in proceedings in France we thought you may be interested to see who were the best performers in France over jumps last term so here are the top ten trainers, jockeys and horses 

TOP TEN TRAINERS. 
                                              Wins    €[total].
( 1 )¯¯ J. Ortet                         145     2.695.885 
( 2 )¯¯ G. Macaire                   140     2.540.730 
( 3 )¯¯ T. Civel                           72     2.027.220 
( 4 )¯¯ Jp. Gallorini                    56    1.885.453 
( 5 )¯¯ J. Bertran De Balanda    29    1.545.830 
( 6 )¯¯ Marcel Rolland               36    1.455.300 
( 7 )¯¯ Arnaud Chaille-Chaille   63    1.438.642 
( 8 )¯¯ B. Secly                            23    1.432.755 
( 9 )¯¯ Thomas Trapenard          28    1.163.417 
( 10 )¯¯Y. Fertillet                        61    1.070.746 

TOP TEN JOCKEYS 
                                            Wins      €[total].
( 1 )¯¯ Christophe Pieux         110      3.191.971 
( 2 )¯¯ Fabrice Barrao             74       1.496.258 
( 3 )¯¯ Jacques Ricou             62       1.100.737 
( 4 )¯¯ Benoit Gicquel             46       1.023.129 
( 5 )¯¯ Laurent Metais             36       1.801.650 
( 6 )¯¯ Sebastien Culin            36         472.038 
( 7 )¯¯ Fernand De Oliveira     33         359.866 
( 8 )¯¯ David Berra                  33         646.028 
( 9 )¯¯ Anthony Blais                31         329.173 
( 10 )¯¯Dominique Deligne     30          394.311 

TOP TEN HORSES (PRIZE MONEY) 
                                                Wins   €[total]
( 1 )¯¯ Laveron,  7, M, Ps              5     438.750 
( 2 )¯¯ El Paso Iii, 10, H, Sf             5     425.030 
( 3 )¯¯ Karly Flight, 4, F, Ps            7     411.062 
( 4 )¯¯ Saint Des Saints, 4, M, Ps   4     317.300 
( 5 )¯¯ Vic Toto, 5, M, Ps               3     286.050 
( 6 )¯¯ Royaleety, 3, H, Ps             6     281.300 
( 7 )¯¯ Rougenoir, 9, H, Ps            3     281.128 
( 8 )¯¯ Le Chablis, 4, H, Ps            4     268.397 
( 9 )¯¯ Batman Senora, 6, H, Ps    1     233.826 
( 10 )¯¯Vie De Reine, 4, F, Ps         5    227.102 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Thursday, January  2nd 2003

CABALLO RAPTOR
Saturday 30th November
Reappearing at Auteuil on Sunday after a long break is an interesting horse, Caballo Raptor. He was the best four year old hurdler of his generation, but things went badly wrong for him last year and this is his first appearance in 2002...in the meantime he's changed stables and is now with François Doumen. His owners have also been taking a more than passing interest in British jumps racing just lately, and a Festival entry might not be out of the question. 

Rumours swirl around another top-class Doumen hurdler, Laveron. After his defeat by Katiki last Sunday, his owner is talking in terms of sending him to the sales with a view to a career at stud...but, should he not reach an appropriate price, of keeping him in training and aiming him at the Champion hurdle. 

Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé Has a day to remember.
A profitable day trip to Auteuil this Sunday for Royan's "other" trainer, the excellently named Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé, who won both the championship races with Sunny Flight and Karly Flight. 

Sunny Flight won the Prix La Haye-Jousselin, roughly the French equivalent of the King George; he's always looked to have the ability to land a race of this stature, but appears to be fragile and difficult to train, and this was his first attempt at an all-age championship chase, at the late age (by French standards) of eight. He may have been helped considerably by the ground going against the obvious favourite El Paso III (pulled up) and his stablemate Fustrien du Paon appearing not to stay. 

The possibility of Sunny Flight running in England was mentioned after the race - presumably the King George being what they had in mind, though he is equally as good a hurdler. I'd be in no hurry to back him ante-post, given his history of lay-offs, and am not sure it would be wise even if he did make it over here in good health. He has a history of falls, and I am not convinced he would take to British fences. 

The second in the race, the five year old Cerilly, appears to be improving steadily and will be interesting next season. The third was a more familiar name to us, Innox; his placing either indicates improvement or casts doubt upon the value of the form. Fourth placed Batman Senora was another to need faster ground. 

Karly Flight won the Prix Renaud du Vivier for four year old hurdlers. Her future is unclear. Her owner wants to retire her for breeding, her trainer to aim her at next year's Grande Course de Haies. As the (disappointing) fourth, Saint des Saints, will be going to stud, and the third, Kotkita, must be the best-qualified potential broodmare in Europe, the name to take from the race is the improving runner-up, the German-bred Foreman. Another Doumen horse, he looks likely to cross the Channel this winter. Still eligible for novice hurdles, he could do very well. The Sun Alliance Hurdle would be the obvious target. 

Also worth noting that the fifth horse, Abyce, should go to the Saint-Cloud sales in the next few days as part of the dispersal of the Wildenstein jumpers. He won't be eligible for novice hurdles or chases, having opened his account well before his British contemporaries had contested the St Leger, and won a chase this March. 

Also on the card a potentially high-class three year old filly, Bulougun, won her second from two over hurdles, while the four year old chase, the Prix Triquerville, usually produces a couple of improving young chasers. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Tuesday, November 12th 2002

PRIX MAURICE GILLOIS GRAND STEEPLE-CHASE DES 4 ANS. 
The Prix Maurice Gillois Grand Steeple Ch Ans. (gr. I) was won this year by Le Chablis, whose trainer Thomas Trapenard is very keen to bring horses over to this country ... He lacks chasing experience however (I think this is his fourth or fifth Chase) but he has improved with each effort . If he gets some experience of our fences he could be interesting in something like the Arkle or Cathcart ... dont be too surprised if we dont see a few of his lesser lights testing the water beforehand. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Sunday, November 3rd 2002

DOUZE DOUZE WINS ON HIS REAPPEARANCE 
Douze Douze made a triumphant return to the racecourse when winning over hurdles at Cholet yesterday by 8lengths. I'm certain Guillame Macaire will be chuffed to bits with this and as long as he doesn't experience any reaction to this run, Douze Douze is likely to be aimed at the Peterborough Chase before a decision is taken on whether he runs in the King George VI Chase. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Saturday November 2nd 2002

SILVER BREAK 
An interesting horse making a reappearance in the Prix Decazes at Auteuil on Wednesday - Silver Break, who looked a real future star at four and five, over both hurdles and fences, but has run only sporadically since, seemingly difficult to train. 

As regards Douze Douze, he reminded me of Mr Mulligan during his novice days - having something of the same raw, inelegant but powerful appearance and a similar style of front-running. (The sheepskin noseband helps in the comparison). It's a long while since he last ran, so whether his habit of jumping alarmingly right-handed will continue, I can't say, but that would land him in serious trouble at Kempton. I'd also have a slight concern about him staying three miles, as he did seem to be tiring after romping round two miles six of Auteuil, though his half-brother did stay a fair bit further than three miles. All the same, I wouldn't see that much to beat him if he retains his ability, Best Mate obviously excepted. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Tuesday, October 29th 2002

DOUZE DOUZE 
You may have in the Racing Post that Guilliame Macaire is aiming Douze Douze for the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. I like this horse a lot - I've had him down in my website's NH horses to follow feature for the last two seasons... This is last year's entry 

"Douze Douze is another inmate of Guillaume Macaire 's who may appear in this country this term. He ran won three of his four starts over fences, as a four year old including the Prix Maurice Gillois Grand Steeple-Chase Des 4 Ans (Chase) (Grade 1) in November 2000, beating Sleeping Night (gave 7lbs). Christopher Ile's comments in our Focus on France feature paint an ever better impression; 

"Douze Douze went to the front after six fences, soon went clear, and basically disappeared off into the distance, producing a huge jump at the water jump, and easing down to win by a comfortable 15 lengths. Sleeping Night and Tango Royal fought out a good battle for second before the latter weakened in the home straight, and the rest were nowhere". 

it's possible his long-term aim may be the French Gold Cup, however it wouldnt surprise me if he were tried on these shores. 

This is a good horse, (I have no doubt about that), however its asking a lot of him to make an immediate impact after two years off. He has been entered in races in france so a watching brief would be advised to ensure that he still retains some of that old sparkle .. the fact there is so little mileage on the clock is however encouraging. 

BILBOA RETIRED 
I meant to mention of this thread that Bilboa had taken a heavy fall on her second race over fences .. that is a shame as she'd shown so much promise on her debut.. Unfortunately injuries were such that she has been retired ... hopefully she will now have a successful career at stud. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Tuesday, October 22nd 2002

LXIII GRAN PREMIO MERANO FORST (STEEPLE-CH)
The big race in Italy today is the latest renewal of the Gran Premio Merano. This is British interest (for a change) ... Do I think Paddy's return is good enough... lets see; [the rest of the card, including a Grade three hurdle is previewed on my site]. 

MERANO 
¦ Vª ¯ MERANO ¦:>- 16.15 - LXIII GRAN PREMIO MERANO FORST (STEEPLE-CHASE - INTERNAZIONALE - Gruppo I) 
[ 1 ] ¯ Beauty King (67½kg) Z.Lica 
[ 2 ] ¯ Blaze Of Glory [GER] (68½kg) D.Fuhrmann 
[ 3 ] ¯ Daisy D'Angron (68½kg) P.Brechet 
[ 4 ] ¯ Eros Du Berlais (67½kg) S.Juteau 
[ 5 ] ¯ Golden Spring (67½kg) T.Barcellini 
[ 6 ] ¯ Hurdle [FR] (68½kg) F.Barrao 
[ 7 ] ¯ Leo Le Lion (67½kg) M.Gallo 
[ 8 ] ¯ Master Blade (67½kg) M.Koehl 
[ 9 ] ¯ Merlino Mago (67½kg) M.Bignami 
[ 10 ] ¯ No Surrender (67½kg) F.Sparapano 
[ 11 ] ¯ Nommeo (67½kg) X.Hondier 
[ 12 ] ¯ Paddy's Return (67½kg) D. Gallagher 
[ 13 ] ¯ Present Bleu [FR] (67½kg) B.Delo 
[ 14 ] ¯ Red Dancer (67½kg) D.Andre's 
[ 15 ] ¯ Registana (67½kg) P.Gehm 
[ 16 ] ¯ Repere (68½kg) G.Guiheneuf 
[ 17 ] ¯ Scaligero (71kg) J. Culloty 
[ 18 ] ¯ Skywasser (67½kg) L.Demaria 
[ 19 ] ¯ Something Special (68½kg) C.Monjon 
[ 20 ] ¯ Taico (67½kg) M. Moretti 
[ 21 ] ¯ Ty Benjam [FR] (69½kg) C.Pieux 
¦¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤(at)¤¤(the)¤¤(post)¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¤¦ 
¦ l'ippica italiana ¦:>-A huge field line up for this valuable steeplechase... isn't it refreshing to have British interest for a change. Here is a run down of the field; 
BEAUTY KING ¯ consistent chaser who has won two chases this term. Finished 5th behind Something Special in the Premio. U.N.I.R.E. steeple ch. last time out and will need to improve to figure here. 
BLAZE OF GLORY [GER] ¯ Christian Sprengel's six year old was in good form last season winning his last three races in Italy. Has a good jockey up and is clearly expected to go well today. 
DAISY D'ANGRON [FR} ¯ French raider was in good form in May/June winning twice at Auteuil. He hasn't built on that in three efforts in Italy and will do well to get into the money on current evidence 
EROS DU BERLAIS [FR] ¯ Jürg Langmeier's German raider comes into this in good heart having landed the Premio Val Pusteria [Cond/ steeple ch] on his latest start. A repeat of his good third behind Ask Me Why in the Premio Grande Steeple Chase Di Milano [gruppo .I / steeple ch.] would give him a good chance here. 
GOLDEN SPRING ¯ Has his first race in Italy, having shown fair form in France. His third to Present Bleu in the Grand Steeple-Chase De Deauville gives him a chance .... though he'll need to improve to land the spoils 
HURDLE [FR] ¯ A useful handicap chaser in france on his day, however he doesn't wins as often as he probably should. He was a good second to Fustrien Du Paon in the Prix Jean Victor steeple ch. at Auteuil in June and that level of form would give him a chance here. He has twice finished behind Daisy D'Angron, which could be considered a negative, however he won a little hurdle race at Rochefort in preparation for this and has decent place claims 
LEO LE LION ¯ Will not lack fitness having beaten Capitaine Leau [formerly with Nicky Henderson] when landing the Premio Val Ridanna [Vend. G.R. / steeple ch]. here last weekend ... probably has a bit to find. 
MASTER BLADE [GER] ¯ Josef Vana's send another raider from the Czech Republic trying to land a valuable prize in Italy. Master Blade has been in good form this term having won two of his seven starts. He lost nothing in defeat behind Glogloglo in the Altes Badener - Jagdrennen / [Listed steeple ch] and could interesting 
MERLINO MAGO ¯ well behind Something Special in the Premio. U.N.I.R.E. steeple ch. last time out and will need to improve to figure here. 
NO SURRENDER ¯ Has been in good form this summer landing the Premio Val D'isarco [Cond G.R / steeple ch.] here in August before finishing fourth behind Something Special in the Premio. U.N.I.R.E. steeple ch... not without a chance here 
NOMMEO ¯ Finished third behind Eros Du Berlais in the Premio Val Pusteria [COND/ steeple ch] on his first Italian venture, though he'll need to improve to land this prize. 
PADDY'S RETURN ¯ Its refreshing to see a British trainer show the gumption to go after the big Italian pots... however a refusal in the Quinns Of Baltinglass Chase (for the La Touche Cup) at Punchestown in April and a distance thumping by Almanzor [arguably the best horse in the Czech Republic] in the Paramo Gold Cup (Steeplechase) in June doesn't bode well. 
PRESENT BLEU [FR] ¯ Comes here in rude health having landed the Grand Steeple-Chase De Deauville in August, before finishing a good fourth to Valgano in the Premio XLVIII C. Siepi Di Merano [gruppo I/ hurdle] here two weeks ago. A repeat of that level of form gives him a great chance here 
RED DANCER ¯ Finished second to Eros Du Berlais in the Premio Val Pusteria [Cond/ steeple ch] on his last start, however has finished behind Blaze of Glory and Something Special in his previous three starts .. has a bit to do. 
REGISTANA [GER] ¯ Frau Dr. Cestmir Olehla's German raider boasts a record of eight wins form seventeen starts. She has won her last two starts, (beating Taico and Something Special who reoppose here) and has to be respected. 
REPERE [FR] ¯ Another horse in good heart for this. Repere has won three of his last three starts, including winning a €100,000 chase at Waregem... has to be considered, however he's hard to evaluate 
SCALIGERO [GER] ¯ Jim Culloty could have a good ride here if this horse were to return to his best form, however he hasn't impressed in three flat races since winning this last year ... hmm. 
SKYWASSER ¯ Was in good form last season, however he hasn't impressed in two starts this term. Well behind Eros Du Berlais in the Premio Val Pusteria [Cond/ steeple ch] and has it all to do here 
SOMETHING SPECIAL [FR] ¯ Erick Bec De La Motte's eleven year old has been in good form this term finishing in the money in his last three starts culminating in a good win in the Premio. U.N.I.R.E. steeple ch here at the beginning of the month... he should go well however he may find one or two too good here. 
TAICO ¯ is a model of consistency and has finished second on his last three starts, behind Something Special in the Premio. U.N.I.R.E. steeple ch and before that, behind Registana here in August.. sure to be there or thereabouts 
TY BENJAM [FR] ¯ The Favourite? ... Probably. This globetrotting french raider has the form in the book having won the Grand Steeple-Chase D'Enghien in October before finishing third to Stormez and Bilboa in the Prix Leopold d'Orsetti Grande Course de Haies d'Enghien (Hurdle) and seventh to St Steven in the Nakayama Grand Jump (Grade 1) (Chase). This six year old would have strong claims on that form, however he took a heavy fall in the Prix Richard Et Robert Hennessy Steeple-Chase at Auteuil two weeks ago and you'd have to hope he has go over that experience 

.S.U.M.M.A.R.Y. :¬>- Whilst not matching the size of say Auteuil, Merano 's steeplechase course takes some jumping. With obstacles like the Oxer, [which comprises two hedges - The first hurdle is 110 cm. high, the second 150cm. They are separated by a 90 cm. wide ditch. Its total width measures 4 mt.] and the Big vertical hurdle [which is 180 cm. high and 90 cm. broad], there is every likelihood is such a big field of some bad luck stories. Hopefully at the business end of the race, Ty Benjam, Blaze of Glory, Registana, Present Bleu and Hurdle will hopefully be to the fore. But for his fall last time out, there is no doubt that Ty Benjam would have been my selection, however there is a chance that an error ridden round could leave him with too much to do. Registana gets the vote. 
¦ 1mo _ IL VINCITORE?¹ ¦:¬>- Registana [GER], 
¦ 2ndo piazzato?² ¦:¬>-Ty Benjam [FR] 
¦ 3rdo piazzato?³ ¦:¬>- Blaze of Glory [GER] 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Sunday, September 29th 2002

GUILLAUME MACAIRE LANDS A DOUBLE AT AUTEUIL,
Prix Edmond Barrachin Steeple Ch. (Grade 3).
Tuesday, September 24th 

1er Vie De Reine , J Ricou - (1 ½.L) 
2è Le Chablis - (½.L) 
3è Ticket To Ride - (½.L) 
4è Kangourou - (3.L) 
5è Green Turf - (¾.L) 
6è Kin D'estruval - (8.L) 
7è Kilefou D'Airy - (1.½.L) 
8è La Zingarella - (2 ½.L) 
9è La Ragoterie- (T ) 
10è Osmose 
Np Dauphin Des Carres,

Guillaume Macaire's runners took centre stage at the Auteuil's most recent meeting, pride of place being Vie De Reine who landed the Prix Edmond Barrachin Steeple Ch. This race had many of France's better four year old steeplechasers in the line up and was run over 2 ½.Lmiles. In the absence of Prix Ferdinand Dufaure winner Karly Flight, Kilefou D'Airy, {who finished in front of Vie De Reine that day], and Green Turf, [impressive winner of his last two starts] were fancied to take this prestigious prize. 

This was however to be Vie De Reine's day.

I have always liked this big daughter of Mansonnien, and this bridesmaid (she has been placed in several of the four year old steeplechases this year], shed her "nearly horse" title with an attacking round of jumping. Always prominent Vie De Reine's searching gallop got several of her rivals into trouble and after taking a breather after the third last withheld a strong late challenge from Le Chablis, {who she'd beaten on her previous start], by 1 ½. lengths 

Vie De Reine deserved this success and she has been so consistent - She has now won five of her fourteen starts, [she was placed in seven of her other starts]. I would expect her to contest some of the principal chases for the remainder of the year (I think she'd do well here, however she would be difficult top place)

Le Chablis ran a good race to he second. He has to be held up for a late effort and just could get back at the winner... I'm sure he'll find other races. The same applies to Green Turf. Only having his fifth start, Green Turf has come on significantly from chasing home Vie De Reine in the Prix Christiniere Steeplechase here in March. Despite his two wins, his lack of experience showed and this "experience will stand him in good stead for the future

LIBERTHINE LANDS THE PRIX DE CHAMBLY (HURDLE)
Prix De Chambly (Hurdle) (Fillies) 
Tuesday, September 24th 
1er Liberthine, J Ricou 65 Kg - (1 ½.L) 
2e Ladykish - (10L) 
3è Solid Land 

The Prix De Chambly was a clash between two decent 3-year-old fillies Liberthine; [the winner of two of her previous five starts] and Ladykish; [the winner of two of her three starts] they outclassed their rivals and had the race to themselves up the straight. They jumped the final two in unison and it was only on the run-in that Liberthine asserted herself to go 1 ½.L lengths clear of Ladykish with the third Solid Land back in third, the rest of the field were well behind. 

These are two decent fillies, who should continue to prosper, the winner - a lovely daughter of Chamberlin, is reputedly Guillaume Macaire's best three year old filly and Robert Waley-Cohen [Katarino's Owner] has an interesting filly to go steeplechasing with... [Maybe even run in this country]

EL PASO III
Prix d'Angers (Hurdle) 
1er El Paso Iii - (2 ½.L) 
2è Cerilly - (3.L) 
3è Batman Senora - (8.L) 
4è Idole Des Fontaines - (5.L) 
5è Rasko - (2 ½.L)

It was nice to see El Paso III back in action and Bernard Secly's black gelding won this "pipe-opener" without too much fuss from Cerilly, with Batman Senora running encouragingly in third. Rasko, [who both I and Christopher Iles feel could do well over fences] was a respectable fifth on his first race since finishing third in the Prix Amadou (Hurdle) (Grade 2) in April 2000... This will have done him the world of good. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Wednesday, 24 September 2002

THE PRIX FINOT. 
Wednesday, September 18th 
Wednesday saw the running of one of the best sources for future winners at Auteuil, the Prix Finot. Run for three year olds making their hurdles debut, it's of rather more significance than the typical debutants' hurdle - it's traditionally the race in which horses which their trainers expect to be future stars make their first appearance. While the first few home will doubtless contest the big three year old hurdles this autumn, useful horses are invariably hidden further down the field - this being France, they are not necessarily given a hard time. For instance, the 1998 race saw a certain Turgeonev finish a well-beaten seventh and the future French champion chaser Kotkijet pulled up. More recent horses who started out in this race include Bilboa, Royal Auclair and Le Roi Miguel. 

In finishing order, here are the two divisions, the colts first: 

Cheler 
Dole Louis 
Saint Gelies 
Triple Agent 
Sphinx du Berlais 
Lord Wolf 
Farceur 
Dom Florent 
The Mirage 
Sisco Gyp 
Mansony 
Timkoko 
Royal Yasmina 
Diam Well 
Laquero 
Bob Morinière (pulled up) 
Compay (fell) 

Latitude 
Tourmaline 
Katoune 
Chantoue Royale 
Chica du Berlais 
Fidelety 
Langennerie 
Nera Maria (fell) 
Sigune Pierji (pulled up) 
Fabulous Darling (pulled up) 
Blowing A Gale (pulled up) 
Royale Pretty Girl (pulled up) 

The fillies' division winner Latitude looks particularly interesting, being out of a sister to Francois Doumen's dual Grand Steeplechase de Paris winner Ucello II. 

Sad to say, nothing trained by Doumen or Macaire in the race, though the likelihood is a couple of these will be bought to race over here this winter. 


RASKO
Francois Doumen is now training a once very useful novice hurdler called Rasko, coincidentally a former winner of the Prix Finot, who is scheduled to make his reappearance on Wednesday after an absence dating back to April 2000. If he retains his ability, he'd be one to note in decent races over here - he's just possibly the sort of horse Doumen would bring over for the Feltham Chase.

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Friday, 19 September 2002

BILBOA WINS ON HER CHASE DEBUT AT ENGHIEN 
Bilboa made a winning reappearance in the Prix Des Rouges Terres at Enghien. Held up in the rear, Bilboa made jumped well and made smooth progress to lead in the straight, before withholding a strong late challenge from Lasting Life 

Doumen wants to run her in the Grand Steeplechase d'Enghien, which is a tall order as it would be only her third chase start, most likely. And does she stay the three miles? 

I'm not sure if Bilboa would be campaigned over fences in Britain this winter, necessarily  ( Isn't she a bit small for that?). It could well be better to keep her to hurdles, especially with it looking an open division at the moment. 

That Killerine looks to have been handicapped on his old French form (and handicapped harshly, at that), judging by the weight he got in the handicap hurdle last Friday. If that's so, there's some real opportunities for some of our French imports back over there. 

Keep an eye on Ogham who also won on the card. It looks like the injury which kept him off for over a year hasn't slowed him up; he'll make a serious chaser. 

Galant Moss is entered at Auteuil again on today, though I don't see why he should reverse form with Vic Toto. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Wednesday, 17 September 2002

XLVIII C. SIEPI DI MERANO [HURDLE]. 
Sunday, 15. September 2002

RESULT
1°     VALGANO 
2°     ALMANZOR 
3°     KOENIGSOHN 
4°     PRESENT BLEU 
5°     NEGRO 
6°     SAN SURU 
7°     MUSARDO 
8°     SALVATOR . 
       COOGAN 
       DOM LYPHARD 
       JAZZIX 
       NER 
       STODOUN 

This was a fascinating race. Almanzor jumped straight into the lead and set a furious pace. Negro tried to match paces, but he couldn't sustain the gallop and dropped back dramatically. 

At halfway, Almanzor was a good 25lengths clear, however he rider sensibly allowed him to get a breather in and Ner, San Suru, Stodoun, Koenigsohn and Present Bleu began to each into the lead, whilst Valgano who'd been sitting off the second group crept back into the race. 

With four to go Ner, San Suru, and Stodoun cried enough and Almanzor, Koenigsohn and Present Bleu led the field out of the back straight. I must admit I thought that Almanzor would fall away, however to his credit, he stuck on bravely and beat of Koenigsohn and Present Bleu's challenge approaching two out, Valgano was flying and at the last touch down in front, however Almanzor was up for the battle and inched his way back up as the line came .... a couple of strides after the post he would have won, however Valgano took the prize, a short head in front of Almanzor, with Koenigsohn 1½lengths back in third. Présent Bleu was a close fourth, whilst Negro [who has stayed on from a hopeless position] only 8lengths back in fifth.. Musardo, Dom Lyphard and Stodoun who should have figured more prominently were very disappointing.

Valgano' s win highlight how good a horse Bagni Di Petriolo is and I hope this horse is given the opportunity to race outside of Italy. Almanzor comes out of the race with great credit too, and I'll be keeping an eye out for this six year old in the future [I shall be checking to see what type of chases he won in the Czech Republic, because he pinged his way around Merano' s stiff hurdles and would for example, be interesting in our Cross country chase at Cheltenham]. A word for Koenigsohn, [who ran a great race on his fourth start over hurdles], and Negro, [a promising effort for a four year old]. They have the potential to mix it at the top level.

BILBOA MAKES HER CHASE DEBUT AT ENGHIEN
Francois Doumen gives Bilboa her first race over fences tomorrow in the sixth race at Enghien, the PRIX DES ROUGES TERRES. She should oblige if she replicates her hurdles form, however Lasting Life, [an accomplished winner over both codes] has had a couple of pipe openers on the flat and will have a fitness advantage.

FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Monday, 16 September 2002

THE NEW SEASON OPENS AT AUTEUIL
The new season opened at Auteuil, and I've noted some horses to watch out fro over hurdles. 

Some of France's best juveniles hurdlers met in the PRIX DES PLATANES on 10 September, Royaleety, [only beaten once in five starts over hurdles - when he was beaten by Nickname, (who is one of our horses to follow this term) and Malcom] was probably expected to add another win to his tally, although he met stern opposition from Malcom, and Homme Du Bourg, and Guilliame Macaire's Vésuve, who had won over course and distance last time out. It was Malcom who confirmed his superiority up the final straight, holding on to beat Homme Du Bourg, by 1-½ lengths (who will lose his maiden tag shortly - could be a nice purchase for this country me thinks), with Royaleety another 1-½ lengths back in third. It was interesting to read the post race comments of Royaleety' s trainer Thierry Civel, and Guilliame Macaire who clearly believes that their charges will come on for the run

The PRIX ACHILLES FOULD is a beginner's hurdles race and was divided into two divisions.

The first division had high drama before the start, when made the task easier for Royal Ceti, a lovely brown gelding by Royal Guard, who I have always thought could make a hurdler. He made all in the race and bar a tardy jump at the second last won his race in impressive fashion by 2 ½ lengths from Kismi Des Brosses who should be winning soon. House Master, who finished fourth is also worthy of mention, as he wasn't knocked about when his chance of winning had gone. He should ability in handicaps at some of the better courses and should win in the not too distant future.

The second division was even more interesting, as amongst the entry was the eight-year-old chestnut horse San Sebastian, formerly trained by John Dunlop, but now in the care of Marcel Rolland. The winner of the 2000 Prix du Cadran-Fouquet's Barriere (Group 1) was having his first race since finishing fourth in the Queen Alexandra Stakes at the Royal Meeting. He was a warm order to win and duly did, although not without having to withhold a stern challenge from the second Dorado, by ¾lengths. Great credit must go to the second, who was only having the third start of his career, who on this evidence should prosper over obstacles. That comment also applies to the sixth Billy The Kid, who wasn't knocked about in the last half of the race. Marcel Rolland clearly believes San Sebastian has a future over hurdles and it will be interesting to see how he is placed during the remainder of this half of the season. 

Three days later, they were back at Auteuil. This time, centre of my interest was the PRIX MELANOS; a conditions hurdle race, which threw together an interesting field of four year old hurdlers. Among them were Maille Pistol; remembered as being the favourite for the 2001 Prix du Jockey-Club (Group 1), who was making his third appearance over hurdles, having won his last start here impressively in July, as well as Karly Flight, who Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé had placed so well to win the Gras Savoye - Prix Ferdinand Dufaure (Chase) (Grade 10, before finishing a creditable fifth in the Prix Alain du Breil (Hurdle) (Grade 1), just behind Grand Match, who reopposed her here. Also in the line-up were Malhado Island and Abyce, (a couple of useful steeplechasers), and Foreman, formerly trained in Germany by Christian Von Der Recke, who joined Francois Doumen after wins at Folkestone and Baden-Baden.

Maille Pistol attempted to make all, however he could sustain the strong gallop on the sticky ground and possibly needing this race weakened into fifth. Up front Karly Flight skipped over the obstacle and withheld a strong challenge from Foreman, by 2 lengths, with Eperson back in third. Arnaud Chaillé-Chaillé deserves great praise for keeping this filly sweet and she will give Great Love, Saint Des Saints and Cybergenic, [who finished in front of her in the Prix Alain Du Breil] plenty to think about in the premier hurdles during the remainder of the season. Maille Pistol and Foreman definitely are worth putting in the notebook, as connections again reported that their charges were in need of this run and would improve of these effort. Given their relative lack of experience in comparison to their rivals ... their effort were particularly noteworthy.


FOCUS ON FRANCE.
Sunday, 15 September 2002

MAILLE PISTOL 
Whilst there is a lull in the french season, its seems like a good time to catch up with the horses that we have so far added to this year's One to Jump feature. 

	Saint des Saints - France's top juvenile hurdler
	Laveron - the French Champion Hurdler
	Le Cid - winner of the French Grand National, and
	Vésuve and Nickname - both of whom have already made their mark in juvenile hurdles

could not have done any more this term, however I have high expectations of 2001 Prix du Jockey-Club Favourite Maille Pistol. 

We know how much he disapointed in the French Derby, however Maille Pistol was purchased by Marcel Rolland with a hurdles career in mind, and he duly got his opportunity at the end of April at Auteuil. Despite being favourite, Maille Pistol wasn't really ever placed with a winning chance, jumping around the outside of the field hesitating before the hurdles. 

Connections clearly took the view that more schooling was required before trying their luck again, and he made his next appearance in the Prix de Royan (Hurdle) again at Auteuil at the beginning of June. Although he didn't win, Maille Pistol was far more competitive and lost nothing in defeat finishing behind Dark Steel and Kefir D'Angron (beaten 7lengths). 

Better was to come when he made his most recent appearance in the Prix Vatelys (Hurdle) (Males) at the beginning of July. Jumping with far more fluency than in his most recent starts - Maille Pistol made all, eventually finishing 20lengths in front of useful chaser Malhado Island in a decent time. 

This is a good platform on which this colt can build, and hopefully this former Group 2 winner on the level can match that sort of grade over obstacles in the coming months

BOISNOIR
Last season was notable for the absence of so many of France's leading chasers. It was pleasing therefore to note the return to the track of Boisnoir, ( arguably the best four- year- old chaser in 2000), who won all three of his starts over fences including in May 2000 landing the Prix Inspace - Ferdinand Dufaure (Grade 1), on his fourth ever start, beating Sleeping Night and Chicuelo (didn't he win easily on Saturday!!!). 

Whatever ailed this lovely scopey son of Djarvis, it kept in off the track until two weeks ago, where Guy Cherel introduced him back to the track where he jumped around in his own time, eventually pulling up in a hurdle race at Dieppe. If he stands training Boisnoir, (now six), could still be a force to be reckoned with. As he is another one of our One To Jump horses - naturally we will be monitoring his progress with some interest. 

FOCUS ON FRANCE 
Sunday, 21 July 2002

ASK ME WHY WINS THE GRAND STEEPLE CHASE DI MILANO
1° 1 Ask Me Why 
2° 5 Merlino Mago 3½ L
3° 2 Cecco Stayer 30L. 
4° 7 Royal Hoc 9L 
5° 3 Eros Du Berlais 7L 
Thierry Civel's Ask Me Why ridden by Christophe Pieux snatched the Grand Steeple Chase Di Milano right on the post after an enthralling batting with Merlino Mago up the final straight. Whilst Falbrav was causing a bit of a surprise when out battling Ekraar to land the Group 1 Premio Pres. Della Repubblica at Capennelle, our "hope" Cecco Stayer cut out a sensible early pace, with Royal Hoc and Gerko (who was to fall when weakening during the final circuit). If a race was ultimately ever was decided by jumping, it was here, as it was evident that Ask Me Why's clean (and clear) jumping over these hedges (similar to bullfinches fences in France but with more depth) was conserving energy, whilst his rivals attempts to brush through the obstacles (particularly Merlino Mago, who did well to survive a blunder right in front of the stands, which knocked Owenbwee out of contention).

Cecco Stayer's attempt to make all floundered with four to go and Merlino Mago (who had been making up relentless progress since his blunder) and Ask Me Why locked horns for a titanic struggle. Both pinged the last, and it took all of Christophe Pieux's strength to get his mount in front just before the post home. Cecco Stayer and Royal Hoc who cut out the early running were an honourable third and fourth. 

PLINKSY LANDS THE PREMIO CORSA SIEPI DEI 4 ANNI 
1° 6 Plinsky 
2° 3 Del Mar Dancer 6L 
3° 8 Windlight 13L
4° 5 Negro 7L 
5° 7 San Teodoro 3L 
The hitherto unbeaten Plinsky maintained his unbeaten record, when putting in an amazing performance to land the Premio Corsa Siepi Dei 4 Anni - Gr.Ii . A son of King's Theatre, Plinsky had shown bits of form on the level and had come tenth in last year's Derby Italiano - Yoga (Group 1). He impressed me in his easily taking his first two starts over obstacles, however I fully expected Negro, (who had won his last three starts) to prove too strong. As it transpires Negro failed to fire (not jumping with any of the fluency shown in previous starts) and despite leading to the first he was quickly past by Plinsky, who after been dropped up at the back of the field, proceeded to charge to the front of the field, and quickly establish a clear lead with he never relinquished. Negro, plus Del Mar Dancer and Windlight made a vain attempt to catch him, but never came remotely close. On this sort of surface Plinksy will be very difficult to beat, though formlines through the second and third suggest that Negro wouldnt be far behind him with more cut in the ground.

BAGNI DI PETRIOLO THE BRAVE !!!
1° 1 Bagni Di Petriolo 
2° 4 Jar (a nose)
3° 3 Hanover House ¾L 
4° 12 Vamabushi 5L 
5° 7 Sardoum 13L 
Whilst I was slightly disappointed by Negro's efforts in the Premio Corsa Siepi Dei 4 Anni, I expected Bagni Di Petriolo to land Group 1 Premio Gran Corsa Di Siepi Mi ... He did, but boy was it close!!!. As usual Bagni Di Petriolo attempted to make all, but it became quite evident from early on, that he wasn't happy on this quick surface. He was stalked throughout by Jar; (a seven year old son of Niniski, who had been campaigned in Group company in Italy and Germany before embarking on a successful jumping campaign), who never allowed him to build up his customary big lead throughout. With two to jump Bagni Di Petriolo still looked like prevailing, however his apparent dislike of the ground became more pronounced and instead of excelling he decelerated .. to such an extent that Jar whittled away his lead up the run in .... Halfway up the runway ... Jar puts his head in front and seems certain to go away and win by a clear margin ... however Bagni Di Petriolo wasn't having any of it. He put his head down and battled, in a manner reminiscent to Ardross (who he isn't too dissimilar to). After going at least a neck down Bagni Di Petriolo put his head down and inched his way back as the line grew nearer and near .... Did he make it? .... I thought he'd lost .... the commentator was still coming down from one of the most dramatic race commentaries I'd heard in a while (South American football commentators have nothing on this guy!!!) .... I had to wait until watching a re run late last night to find out that he'd just got back up ....Both the winner and runner up come out of this with great credit .. their next meeting is will be worth waiting for.

FOCUS ON FRANCE 
Tuesday, 14 May 2002

NICKNAME COULD BE ONE TO FOLLOW 
Nickname (the first runner from One To Jump 2003) looks like a horse to follow after his smooth success in the Prix Wild Monarch Poulain. This full brother of Nom D'Une Pipe and Narkis (who have been in previous horses to follow features) jumped like a natural over the 3.000 metres trip and quickened up nicely in the straight to 6lengths between himself and Le Duc, with Lillium De Cotte, and Homme Du Bourg, finishing promisingly in third and fourth. Trainer Jean-Paul Gallorini was pleased with the effort and fully expects Nickname to come on for the experience.

In the Prix Wild Monarch Pouliche, Bernard Beaunez's Rylara Des Brosses dominated throughout, however her time was significantly slower than that put up by Nickname previously, and she also had run well at Longchamp a couple of week's prior to this assignment... maybe Really Royale (a daughter of Guard Royale out of the useful mare Chanson du Chênet) and Lili Bleue (a daughter of Epervier Bleu out of a Guard Royale mare) are the horses to note, as they clearly weren't as "match-fit" as the favourite clearly was. 

On the same card, Galant Moss was probably unlucky not to land the Prix Jean Granel (Hurdle). After a funeral early pace, Galant Moss quickened and led going to the last, however he blundered badly and was past by Spanish Wells halfway up the running... Not a bad effort considering he was conceding weight and still looks to be on course for the French Champion Hurdle next month.

FOCUS ON FRANCE 
Saturday, 11 May 2002

PRIX WILD MONARCH HAIES
One of my favourite races of the year today - the Prix Wild Monarch at Auteuil. It is for maidens at starting and usually the entry contains some of the better thought of juvenile hurdlers.

A tough assignment for Galant Moss, though. Martin Pipe has placed the horse cleverly on his raids, making sure he doesn't get too many penalties for his wins. All his five opponents look worthwhile, though; an interesting prep race for the Grande Course de Haies, which looks quite open at the moment. I've not been convinced by the winners of the established trials so far. I'd question whether Vic Toto is going to be suited by the extended distance, and whether his opponents will be caught out again by his front-running. Kimbi has been beaten too often in the big races to appeal, and there seems no reason why the mud-loving Tiger Groom should turn the form around with either of these in mid-June. The reappearance of Le Sauvignon was scheduled for a couple of weeks back, but doesn't seem to have happened, which is not encouraging. Pipe has the wild card for the race in Magnus, should he choose to do anything about it.

Sunny Flight makes a welcome reappearance today. Hopefully he'll earn a crack at the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris, which is another race that looks thin on paper. Vieux Beaufai and El Paso III look to have it between them at this point. Vieux Beaufai ought to beat El Paso III, but he does seem tricky to ride right. Rougénoir and Double Car seem to have found the easier races, and the rest don't seem good enough.

The four year olds are good, though. Saint des Saints is exceptional in what looks like an above-average group of hurdlers so far. The chasers are promising, seeming better than last autumn's four-year-olds, though not quite as good as last spring's. Whether Karly Flight or Plaisir du Roy will turn out to be the best, or something else will come through, remains to be seen.

FOCUS ON FRANCE 
Friday, 10 May 2002

LAVERON LANDS THE GRANDE COURSE DE HAIES DE PRINTEMPS. 
Here is a brief summary of the days event at Auteuil , which featured the - Grande Course De Haies De Printemps (Grade 3) as well as the debut of last year's French Derby favourite Maille Pistol making his eagerly awaited debut over obstacles today in the eighth race of a cracking card at Auteuil. 

AUTEUIL 
13:45 - PRIX WILLIAM HEAD Steeple Ch. 
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1èr - Batman Senora 
2nd - Gadelier ENC. 
3rd - Eauberdier 2½ lengths 
Disappointing race, with many of the major players running stinkers ... Batman Senora battled bravely to get up close home, but what to make of the form is another matter 

14:15 - PRIX SICIE Haies.
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1èr - Divine Gesture 
2nd - Anissia 10lengths 
3rd - Legend of Anaïs 6lengths 
Good performance by the winner Divine Gesture who made just about all of the running and quickened clear of his rivals in the softening conditions 

14:45 - GRANDE COURSE DE HAIES DE PRINTEMPS {Gr.3} 
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1èr - Laveron 
2nd - Fils d'Ecosse 6lengths 
3rd - Isidore Ranson 
4th - Sirius Parcs 
An easy win for Laveron who popped round economically and quickened up in the manner of a good horse after the last. As I said in preview, I'm sure he'll go onto better things 

15:20 PRIX JEAN STERN Steeple Ch. {Gr.2 } 
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1èr - Karly Flight 
2nd - Vie de Reine 8lengths 
3rd - Kiléfou d'Airy 6lengths 
Bad rides enabled Karly Flight to poach an unassailable lead virtually from the start (which at one stage was extended to 20lengths ) ... the others runners never had a prayer. Kiléfou d'Airy is going the right way and is one to not for the future 

15:50 PRIX AMADOU Haies {Gr.2} 
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1èr - Saint des Saints 
2nd - Great Love 8lengths 
3rd - Grand Match 1lengths 
The performance of the Day ... (and another winner for our horses to follow feature!!!). Saint Des Saints lorded it over his rivals and strode away impressively up the home straight .... There isn't any doubt whose the best 4year old hurdler in France at present!!! 

16:20 PRIX JEAN VICTOR Steeple Ch.
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1èr - 2 Fustrien du Paon 
2nd - 11 Hurdle 4lengths 
3rd - 10 Atacama 1½ lengths 
Fustrien du Paon was always travelling best here, and quickened up past Hurdle (who seemed to enjoy being ridden more positively) after the last. 

16:50 PRIX ROMANTISME Haies
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1èr - 1 Darius Quercus 
2nd - 5 Royal Standard 2½ lengths 
3rd - 8 Baby Norm ¾lengths 
Darius Quercus was another easy winner who travelled well throughout the race and won decisively. the eye-catcher was the third Baby Norm, who made a lot of ground up in the home straight and will definitely be winning on this showing 

17:20 PRIX ROMANTISME Haies 
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1èr - 4 Saman Khan 
2nd - 2 Kiribas 3lengths 
3rd - 13 Klevin 1lengths 
The much awaited hurdles debut of Maille Pistol ended up being a bit of a disappointment. He jumped adequately, however was never really placed competitively in the race, eventually weakening up the home straight. Saman Khan outstayed his remaining rivals to win nicely (My initial thoughts were that the first division of this race was the better one) 

17:50 PRIX CHAKHANSOOR Haies 
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1èr - 16 Joss De Champfeu 
2nd - 2 Bayron de Tercah 4lengths 
3rd - 11 Jocelin 6lengths 

FOCUS ON FRANCE
Saturday, April 27 2002 

LE CID SWOOPS TO TAKE THE PRIX DU PRESIDENT DE LA REPUBLIQUE STEEPLE CH. (THE FRENCH GRAND NATIONAL)
Here is a summary of the days event at Auteuil , which featured The Prix Du President De La Republique Steeple Ch. (The French Grand National)

13:45 PRIX GRANDAK (Haies) (Distance:3000 m 46000 Euro)
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1èr- Julius Honor 
2nd - Golden Flight ½ length 
3rd - Do L'Enfant D'Eau 1½ lengths 
4th - Lutin de Champfeu 1½ lengths 
Julius Honor travelled smoothly throughout, and took it up turning for home. He withheld a strong challenge, from Golden Flight, and Do L'Enfant D'Eau after the last to win by half a length. Golden Flight deserves a positive, and he was definitely looked after, and should improve on this effort ... We may see Guilliame Macaire's runner at some stage next season. 

14:15 PRIX D'ARLES (Haies) - ( Distances: 3600 m 40000 Euro)
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1èr- Nikalie 
2nd - La Ragoterie 8 lengths 
3rd - Kermeline 6 lengths 
4th - Xara de Sizière ¾ length 
Nikalie eventually won this going away however she did struggle and may have been inconvenienced slightly by the faster surface ... the further she goes the better, and I'm sure this filly will go onto better things. La Ragoterie stayed on nicely to take second, while Xara de Sizière caught the eye as another future winner 

14:45 PRIX DU PRESIDENT DE LA REPUBLIQUE (Steeple Ch.) (The French Grand National) (Distance :4700 m 225000 Euro)
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1èr- Le Cid 
2nd - Innox 2½ lengths 
3rd - Jondali 1 length 
4th - Philastre 2 lengths 
A Great effort by the five year old, to steal the prize off of Innox, who looked to have beaten off all challengers over the penultimate obstacles. He didn't jump as well as he usually did (slightly hesitantly, particularly at five out ) but he didn't do anything wrong. Jondali stayed on strongly in third whilst my hunch about Philastre proved to be correct, as he ran a blinder to be fourth. The winner did well to get up after turning for home in eighth, and as I suggested in summary needs every yard of this trip... it'll be interesting to see if he ever is campaigned out of France, where he would definitely have more opportunities 

15:20 PRIX JAMES HENNESSY (Steeple Ch). (Distance: 4100 m. 75000 Euro)
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1èr- Green Turf 
2nd - La Zingarella 3 lengths 
3rd - Honneur du Roy 6 lengths 
4th - Jaccout 2 lengths 
The winners Green Turf, is definitely a horse to keep an eye on for the future, after winning this easily, despite a slipping saddle, which caused him to hang across the course after the last. The saddle had virtually gone by the winner post (it is fortunate he was wearing a breastplate otherwise disaster would definitely have struck. The third Honneur du Roy could be winning before too long 

15 :50 PRIX LEON RAMBAUD (Haies) {Gr.2} (Distance: 4100 m. 110000 Euro).
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1èr- Kimbi 
2nd - Vic Toto head
3rd - Tiger Groom 2½ lengths 
4th - Fou du Roy V 3 lengths 
A bit of a surprise as Kimbi stayed on really strongly to catch Vic Toto by the line. History will do doubt show that Vic Toto was slightly off colour here, however his attacking style will always leave him vulnerable at the end of his races (... he may have found the surface too fast). His pilot may have cost him the prize in attempting across to the stands side rail, where the ground is usually better. He sacrificed most of the eight/nine lengths advantage he had turning for home. His win is another reminder of how disappointing Magnus has been since winning the Prix Leon Olry-Roederer (Grade 2 Hurdle), his first run for Martin Pipe where Kimbi was well beaten that in fifth place. 

16:25 PRIX LA BELLE FERRONNIERE (Haies) (Distance 3500 m. 21000 Euro)
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1èr- Birthday Wish 
2nd - Rêve d'un Songe 6 lengths 
3rd - Jossca 1 length 
4th - La Collancelle 6 lengths 
A dramatic end to the sixth, as Rêve d'un Songe, who had made all and had (frankly) run here rival ragged tied up dramatically after the last, and couldn't withhold the late surge of the winner. 

16:55 PRIX SPIROU (Steeple Ch.) (Distance: 3500 m. 21000 Euro)
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1èr- Tintin 
2nd - Tarzoon 1½ lengths 
3rd - Winner of Pouline 6 lengths 
4th - Carmarthen Junior ½ length 
Tintin landed the seventh after taking it up going for home, and stayed on too strongly from Tarzoon, and Winner of Pouline who ran on strongly after losing her place at halfway. Hilltopper, who set a strong early pace weakened tamely and appears to have regressed. 

15 :25 PRIX ARTHUR VEIL-PICARD (Haies) (Distance 3500 m. 36000 Euro)
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1èr- Defense Rests 
2nd - Russian Shift 2 lengths 
3rd - Ibycos 1 length 
4th - Baby Town 3 lengths 
Very few of these every got into this race, run at a strong pace. Defense Rests was never out of the first two, and stayed on well to withhold the last challenge of Russian Shift, who must have made up at lest ten lengths on the run-in alone, and Ibycos... He should be winning soon as should Beringneyev who was given another confidence round in fifth 


FOCUS ON FRANCE
Sunday, April 21st 2002 

This page was updated on Sunday April 20, 2003 at 10:47:40 PM.

FOCUS ON FRANCE 

I do think the modern day racing jumps fans acknowledges that there is a lot that we should try and learn about the foreign invaders, and I think we had to do with the resurgence of point to pointing as a nursery ground  for future chasing stars.  Those of you who know me  are aware that I do have a good knowledge of this sphere, however I don't think we all the other things I do on the website, I could do it justice.  That's how I got to know Christopher Iles, who being a regular visitor to France, has a very good background on their scene can give it the focus I think it deserves.  I know Christopher is contemplating doing his own website, however before he does so, over the coming months, Christopher, (and whenever I can) will be trying to keep you in touch with what occurring on in France. as well as pointing some names to watch out for.

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