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France Form Sheet – 20th May
Race Preview
R1 – PRIX HUNYADE – 1200m (a6f) – TURF – Newcomers Race – Flat – EUR € 30,000
1. TOLEBI – Newcomer by Golden Horde, the dam was a useful filly winning at Listed and Group
3 Class. Bold show expected on debut
2. LEWIS GREY – Unraced by Dark Angel, the dam won on debut . The Rouget stable will have
this colt nicely tuned for his debut. Monitor the betting exchanges
3. LIVING IN VEGAS – Unraced by Goken, judged on jockey bookings he looks like the second
string of the Rouget pair. Monitor the betting
4. COTE D’OR – Newcomer by Belardo, from a good stable and has a nice profile. Any market
support should be noted
5. GUN OF BRIXTON – Newcomer by Frankel, the dam was placed. Will be well prepared from
the Andre Fabre yard. The betting can guide
6. TIEGO THE FIRST – Unraced by Blue Point, the dam was speedy and won twice. One to
watch in the betting for clues
7. AL MAX – Newcomer by Al Wukair, stable runners tend to improve for a run or two. watch the
betting for clues
8. DYONISOS – Newcomer by Goken, from a stable that can ready one for their debut. Any
market support should be informative
9. BELVEDERE PALACE – Newcomer by Calyx, the dam won once. Stable runners warrant
respect and this gelding should be watched in the betting for clues
Summary: TOLEBI (1) has a speedy profile and hails from the Fabre powerhouse. His dam won
a Listed and a Group 3 race in the UK. He will be expected to make a winning debut. GUN OF
BRIXTON (5) is the likely main danger and is a stablemate of the selection. LEWIS GREY (2)
looks good on paper and is one to watch for any support in the betting market. BELVEDERE
PALACE (9) is also one to keep safe and could be the best of the remainder.
SELECTIONS
TOLEBI (1) – GUN OF BRIXTON (5) – LEWIS GREY (2) – BELVEDERE PALACE (9)
R2 – PRIX LA BELLE II – 1200m (a6f) – TURF – Newcomers Race – Flat – EUR € 30,000
1. ANGEAL – Unraced by Wootton Bassett, the dam was a winner at Group 2 and 3 Class. Can
play a lead role and is one to watch in the betting
2. WINE NOTE – Unraced by Style Vendome, stable runners are generally better for a run and
this filly should be monitored in the betting for any support
3. LADY MADEIRA – Newcomer by Belardo, stable runners usually benefit for a run or two for
experience. The betting can guide
4. YOGA MASTER – Newcomer by Persian King, the dam won a Listed race and was Group
placed. Bold show expected and is one to note in the betting market
5. SNOWSOCIETY – Unraced by Toronado, the dam won once. One to watch in the betting
market for any support
6. RING TRUE – Newcomer by Belardo, the dam won one race. Has a nice profile and is one to
keep safe. The betting can be the best guide
7. BRAVO BAY – Newcomer by New Bay, the dam was unraced. Any market support should be
noted
8. RELAXX – Unraced by City Light, stable runners warrant respect. Watch the betting exchanges
for clues
Summary: YOGA MASTER (4) is well-bred and is from the Fabre stable. This Godolphin-owned
filly will be nicely tuned for her debut. She can score from ANGEAL (1) who is bred for speed. Her
dam was a useful performer who won at Group 2 and 3 Class. SNOWSOCIETY (5) looks good
on paper and any market support for her should be noted. RING TRUE (6) is one to keep safe
and heads the remainder.
SELECTIONS
YOGA MASTER (4) – ANGEAL (1) – SNOWSOCIETY (5) – RING TRUE (6)
R3 – PRIX PISTOL PACKER – 1400m (a7f) – TURF – Class 2 Divided Handicap – Flat – EUR € 53,000
1. SEE YOU PINK – Three unplaced runs since a win over 1000m at Lyon Parilly in a Class 2
race on November 9th. Unsure over this distance
2. TAIRANN – Unplaced in a Listed race last time over 1400m at Parislongchamp on April 28th,
but ran well when 2nd in a Class 2 handicap on March 5th over 1600m. Can feature
3. ZVAROSHKA – Unplaced last time, 4th before that in a Class 1 race at Chantilly over 1600m
on December 14th. In the mix
4. AVERSA – Won two runs ago over 1400m at Fontainebleau on April 2nd over 1400m in a
Class 2 handicap. One to keep safe
5. FREJA – Nice 3rd over 1400m in a Class 2 handicap on April 28th when last seen at
Parislongchamp. Player
6. HOXTON – Non partant
7. AGAPI MIA – Unplaced last time, won before that over 1500m at Saint-Cloud on June 6th,
2023. Best watched for now
8. ETEL DU NINIAN – Two unplaced runs this year, won at Deauville on November 4th in a Class
3 handicap over 1400m before that. Has work to do
9. ALVA – Three unplaced runs of late, won before that over 1300m at Deauville in a Class 3 race
on February 10th on the PSF. Can not be ruled out of the top four
10. CHANEL GOLD – Won over 1400m when last seen on April 28th in a Class 3 handicap at
Parislonhgchamp. Live each way option
11. OMICRONE – 3rd two runs back over 1500m at Chantilly in a Class 2 race on November
14th. Needs to shape better than the most recent outing when well beaten
12. TERREDEGUERRE – Has been in good shape of late, a most recent 2nd at Chantilly over
1600m in a Class 3 handicap was encouraging and she can score
13. SASSICA – Three unplaced runs of late, 4th before that over 1500m in a Class 2 handicap on
February 5th. Needs to get back to form
14. OXIANA – Unplaced of late on the last four runs, won before that on the PSF over 1500m on
December 19th. Looks safely held
15. LUNALA – Fair 4th over 1400m in a Class 3 race at Saint-Cloud on April 5th last time. Each
way angle
16. MAZIWA – Won two runs ago over 1300m on January 5th in a Class 4 race at Deauville.
More needed this time
Summary: TERREDEGUERRE (12) has a nice racing weight and has been in good form of late.
Her most recent effort when second was a pleasing run and she can go one better this time. Her
main threat could be FREJA (5) who was a good third in a Class 2 handicap 22 days ago over
1400m. TAIRANN (2) is one to include in all of the place bet permutations. ALVA (9) makes up
the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
TERREDEGUERRE (12) – FREJA (5) – TAIRANN (2) – ALVA (9)
R4 – PRIX CORRIDA – 2100m (a1m1/4) – TURF – Gr2 Race – Flat – EUR € 130,000
1. VILLAGE VOICE – 4th last time in a Group 2 race at the Curragh (IRL) on May 6th. Won at this
track on October 22nd in the Prix De Flore (Gr.3). Place chance
2. YOROKOBI – Unplaced last time in a Group 3 race on November 11th, won before that over
2900m in a maiden on October 20th. Others rate higher
3. ARDENT – Won her last two races, the latter a Listed race over 1900m at Deauville on
December 21st on the PSF. Can feature
4. QUANTANAMERA – 4th two starts ago in a Group 1 race at Baden Baden on September 3rd.
Faded when last seen on April 28th over 2000m in a Group 3 race. Looks vulnerable
5. MELO MELO – Nice 2nd in a Listed race at Parislongchamp over 2800m on May 5th, and was
2nd in the Prix Vermeille (Gr.1) last September. Player
6. LEFT SEA – Unplaced last time when in need of the race 21 days ago, 4th at Chantilly over
1800m in a Group 3 race before that on September 16th. One to keep safe
7. PENSEE DU JOUR – Good run when 2nd over 2000m in a Group 3 race at Parislongchamp on
her return to action on April 28th. Can improve and looks like the one to beat
Summary: PENSEE DU JOUR (7) will strip fitter for a pleasing return to action when second at
Parislongchamp in a Group 3 race 21 days ago and can go one better this time. Her main threat
could be MELO MELO (5) who was second in the Prix Vermeille (Gr.1) last September and
shaped well when second on May 5th in a Listed race. ARDENT (3) is progressing and scored in
a Listed race last time at Deauville on the PSF in December. She should be competitive despite
an absence.
SELECTIONS
PENSEE DU JOUR (7) – MELO MELO (5) – ARDENT (3) – LEFT SEA (6)
R5 – PRIX POT AU FEU – 2400m (a1m1/2) – TURF – Newcomers Race – Flat – EUR € 27,000
1. DARABUKKAH – Unraced by Zarak, the dam ran once. The Graffard trained horses are
usually well-tuned and know what is required. The betting can be informative
2. DARAJBAL – Unraced by Iffraaj, the dam never ran. Stable runners warrant respect and any
market support should be noted
3. MAJESTIC GLORY – Newcomer by Olympic Glory, the dam won twice. From a good stable
who know how to prepare one for a good debut run. Monitor the betting market
4. PRIVATE DELIGHT – Newcomer by Iffraaj, the dam won two races and one of them was in
Listed Class. One to watch in the betting market
5. GOT YEAH – Unraced by Seahenge, the dam ran twice. From an astute trainer who knows the
time of day. Monitor the betting for clues
6. BORN TO WIN – Newcomer by Born To Sea, stable runners improve for a run or two. One to
watch in the betting
7. MAHOMES – Newcomer by Pheonix Of Spain, stable runners tend to improve for a debut run.
One to watch in the betting market
8. MANIGOD – Unraced by American Devil, the dam won one race. One to watch in the betting
market for any support
9. ARTIFACT – Newcomer by Anodin, the dam was useful winning at Listed Class. Can be
expected to make a bold show on his debut
10. CREATIF – Newcomer by Dubawi, the dam won a Group 3 race and was placed in a Group 1
race. Any market support should be noted
Summary: ARTIFACT (9) can make a winning start. His dam was useful winning at Listed Class.
He will be well forward for this race, as will DARABUKKAH (1) who looks good on paper and the
Graffard horses warrant respect on their debut. DARAJBAL (2) and PRIVATE DELIGHT (4) both
catch the eye on how they are bred and any market support for them can be informative.
SELECTIONS
ARTIFACT (9) – DARABUKKAH (1) – DARAJBAL (2) – PRIVATE DELIGHT (4)
R6 – PRIX ROGER LEYRAUD – 1100m (a5f1/2) – TURF – Claiming – Flat – EUR € 12,500
1. CLOSE COMBAT – Improved with the benefit of an introductory outing to win a 1200m claimer
at Marseille-Borély on 3 May. Should have more to offer
2. EYWA – Made encouraging improvement to finish 5th in a 1200m claimer at Marseille-Borély
on 3 May. Could get into the picture
3. CYLENECHOPE – Boasts sound references/form credentials, including a last-start 3rd over
1200m at Lyon-Parilly on 8 May. Has a winning chance in this grade with headgear refitted
4. GOVINA – Goken filly likely to improve after finishing 8th on debut at Marseille-Borély over
1000m on 24 April. Will have blinkers fitted
5. MARVELOUS BY NIGHT – Yafta debutante from the stable of Nicolas Bellanger, who has
engaged Ludovic Boisseau to ride this filly. Dark horse
6. EVERBLOOM – Marc Pimbonnet-trained Dariyan filly to be ridden on debut by Rudy
Pimbonnet. An attractive outsider
7. LINESKY – Non partante
8. FUSEE DE PORCHE – Non Partant
9. CITE MONDINE – Has finished 6th in both outings and didn’t go unnoticed in the latest of
those, a 1200m claimer on 3 May at Marseille-Borély. Place chance
Summary: CYLENECHOPE (3) has acquitted herself consistently/competitively in stronger races
than this, so should take advantage of the drop in grade with headgear refitted. She gets the nod
ahead of improving last-start winner CLOSE COMBAT (1), who shoulders a penalty for his recent
claiming success. GOVINA (4) ought to have benefitted from the experience of an introductory
outing and, as such, could make her presence felt in this category with improvement expected.
LINESKY (7), supplemented for this race, isn’t without a chance either after an
improved/encouraging last start (2nd).
SELECTIONS
CYLENECHOPE (3) – CLOSE COMBAT (1) – GOVINA (4) – EYWA (2)
R7 – PRIX TIMANDRA – 2400m (a1m1/2) – TURF – Newcomers Race – Flat – EUR € 27,000
1. SELEMIAH – Unraced by Golden Horn, the dam won two races. Looks the part on paper and
will be nicely prepared for this by her shrewd trainer
2. HAUTEVILLE – Unraced daughter of Le Havre, Yann Barberot her trainer will have this one
ready for a bold show. Monitor the betting market
3. FEDYANE – Newcomer by Almanzor, should be better for this race and is one to watch on her
debut. The betting can guide
4. FLEURS DES BOIS – Newcomer by Waldgeist, from the Fabre powerhouse, and will be ridden
by Mickael Barzalona. watch the betting for support
5. MAGNETICQUEEN – Unraced by Masar, the dam never ran. might be in need of this race and
is best watched on her debut
6. WISH UPON A STAR – Newcomer by Dream Ahead, should be better for this opening run.
Monitor the betting market
7. FULL OF HOPE – Newcomer by Saxon Warrior, stable runners are not fully tuned as a rule on
their debut and this filly is one to watch in the betting exchanges
8. AFTER MIDNIGHT – Unraced by Teofilo, from a good yard and warrants respect. One to watch
in the betting
9. KATNISS – Newcomer by Sea The Stars, the dam won at Listed Class and was Group 1
placed. the mount of Maxime Guyon can make a winning debut
Summary: KATNISS (9) will be expected to score on debut. This daughter of Sea The Stars has
a nice profile and her dam was a useful performer. SELEMIAH (1) is one to watch in the betting
closely and this Golden Horn filly looks good on paper. Others that have taking profiles are
FLEURS DES BOIS (4) who is from the Andre Fabre powerhouse and HAUTEVILLE (2) who is
trained by Yann Barberot who is a good trainer and can get one to strike on debut.
SELECTIONS
KATNISS (9) – SELEMIAH (1) – FLEURS DES BOIS (4) – HAUTEVILLE (2)
R8 – PRIX DE L’ASSOCIATION DES PROPRIETAIRES DU SUD-EST – 1100m (a5f1/2) – TURF – Class 4 Handicap – Flat – EUR € 17,000
1. TILL WE DIE – Returned to form an improved/encouraging 3rd at Lyon-Parilly on 8 May. Has
claims here on that form
2. HAARICIA – Inconsistent handicapper who pops up from time to time but on both turf and PSF.
Finished 10th over 1500m on the all-weather surface at Marseille on 5 April and hasn’t raced on
turf since June last year
3. LUDDEN LASS – Possesses lots of early speed so should do well over 1100m. Only 9th over
1400m at Fontainebleau last time (on 30 April) but can do better here
4. WASACHOP – Went off the boil last year after finishing 3rd in a 1200m turf handicap at
Marseille-Borely. Unplaced in all five starts since, the latest (8th) at Lyon-Parilly on 8 May
5. BIJJLEE – Has finished in the first five in each of her last eight races and finished 2nd in her
last three starts. Runner-up over 1200m at Fontainebleau on 3 May
6. VANILLE BLEUE – Finished 3rd twice and a 2nd in three outings prior to her disappointing last
start (9th) over 1200m on 8 May at Lyon-Parilly. Capable
7. I DARE – Disappointing 8th over 1200m at Marseille-Borely on 24 April but would have a
chance her on the strength and consistency of her earlier form
8. AS A CHARM – Won a 1600m PSF handicap at Pau in November but has struggled (finished
unplaced) in all four subsequent outings, the latest (12th) in a 1300m PSF handicap at Cagnes on
11 February
9. THE DIG – Inconsistent handicapper who pops up from time to time but remains unreliable.
Finished 3rd in a 1200m handicap at Toulouse two starts back but absent since his 9th in a
1300m PSF handicap at Chantilly (29 Feb)
10. YAKAMETTE KOUKEBAK – Consistent handicapper with sound references/form credentials,
including a last-start 5th over 1200m at Marseille-Borely on 24 April. Keep safe
11. RISKI CHOPE – Returned to form an improved/encouraging 4th over 1600m at Châtillon-surChalaronne on 22 April. Needs to confirm
12. SANTI DEL MARE – Course-and-distance winner in May last year but has lost his way since –
finished 10th over 1100m on 6 March at Fontainebleau. Best watched for now
13. JOHN STYLE – Showed signs of improvement when finishing 4th over 1600m at Châtillonsur-Chalaronne on 1 May. Has to build on that progress
14. EXPLORAR – Won a 1200m turf handicap at Toulouse in February on his reappearance but
has struggled (unplaced) in all 3 subsequent outings, the latest (12th) in a 1200m handicap at
marseille-Borely on 24 April
Summary: BIJJLEE (5) will be suited by the conditions (distance, state of the track, etc) and
represents a jockey-trainer combination that is likely to enjoy a profitable day’s racing, so is good
value to break through and register an overdue first career win – a reward for her consistency.
LUDDEN LASS (3 represents a formidable partnership too (Jérôme Reynier and Antonio Orani)
and should fight for victory. VANILLE BLUE (6), on the evidence of her eye-catching penultimate
outing, and I DARE (7), whose record at this track is encouraging, ought to make their presence
felt too. YAKAMETTE KOUKEBAK (10), TILL WE DIE (1) and RISKI CHOPE (11) appeal most of
the remainder.
SELECTIONS
BIJJLEE (5) – LUDDEN LASS (3) – VANILLE BLEUE (6) – I DARE (7)
R9 – PRIX NASRULLAH – 1600m (a1m) – TURF – Class 2 Race – Flat – EUR € 28,000
1. BRIO – Won over 1600m at Chantilly in a maiden when last seen on December 22nd. Needs a
few to falter
2. STANGHELI – 4th at Chantilly in a Class 2 race on April 15th last time over 1800m, not far
behind RETOUCH (5) who was 2nd. Can make an impact
3. BOLIDE PORTO – 5th last time, 3rd before that in a Class 1 race at Saint-Cloud on April 5th
over 2000m. Has won a Class 2 race over 1600m in December. In the mix
4. AMERICAN LAWYER – Won a maiden at Chantilly over 1600m last time on April 26th. Can
make further progress and have a say
5. RETOUCH – Nice 2nd in a Class 2 race at Chantilly on April 15th last time over 1800m. Can go
one better
6. RED IN SIGHT – Unplaced last time, 4th before that at Deauville over 1900m on February 3rd.
Others rate higher
Summary: A good second last time at Chantilly over 1800m in mid-April RETOUCH (5) can go
one better this time. He will be fine over the drop back to 1600m. His main rival is STANGHELI
(2) who was fourth in the same race at Chantilly in April when beaten around one length.
AMERICAN LAWYER (4) won his maiden nicely 23 days ago at Chantilly when he was strong at
the line. He is improving with experience and also has Christophe Soumillon on top to guide him.
SELECTIONS
RETOUCH (5) – STANGHELI (2) – AMERICAN LAWYER (4) – BOLIDE PORTO (3)
R10 – PRIX JEAN-CLAUDE NAPOLI – 2400m (a1m1/2) – TURF – Maiden Race – Flat – EUR € 21,000
1. SHERKANE – Has revealed considerable means in 4 outings, finishing 3rd twice and 2nd
twice. Runner-up over 2100m at Toulouse last time out on 8 April – has a good chance to open
his account
2. NO BAY – Jérôme Reynier-trained gelding whose debut 6th over 2000m at Marseille-Borely on
3 May was encouraging. Progress expected
3. HASTA LA VISTA – Failed to build on the promise of his debut 6th over 1600m at Lyon-Parilly
when only 9th over 2000m at that venue when last seen on 2 November. Open to improvement
on his reappearance – has been gelded since
4. ROCKET RISE – Unplaced in two starts (finished 5th on debut at Deauville in August and 6th
at Cavaillon on 4 May) both over 1600m, though wasn’t disgraced in either outing. Open to
improvement over this extended trip
5. GALIGERA – Runner-up in three of 4 outings, including consecutive recent starts – the latest in
a 2600m conditions event at Marseille-Borely on 24 April. Has obvious claims
6. GOLDEN FLASH – Didn’t go unnoticed when an encouraging 5th on debut over 2600m at
Marseille-Borely on 24 April. Ought to have improved with the benefit of that experience
7. SIR GARSING – Nicolas Bellanger-trained Garswood gelding to be ridden on debut by Ludovic
Boisseau. Not taken lightly
8. MISS PARANO – Johnny Barnes debutante from the stable of Manon Scandella-Lacaille, who
has engaged Marina Brunelli to ride this filly
Summary: SHERKANE (1) and GALIGERA (5) are likely to find themselves fighting for victory
and neither would be winning out of turn after several near misses. Jérôme Reynier is doublehanded and both his runners, GOLDEN FLASH (6) and NO BAY (2), should improve to make
their presence felt too.
SELECTIONS
SHERKANE (1) – GALIGERA (5) – GOLDEN FLASH (6) – NO BAY (2)
R11 – PRIX COMTESSE DE LOIR – 1400m (a7f) – TURF – Class 3 Divided Handicap – Flat – EUR € 27,000
1. PARURE DES SABLES – 5th last time over 1700m in a Class 4 race at Saint-Brieuc on May
9th. Can have a say
2. SUNLIKE – 4th on her last three starts, with the latter at Deauville in a Class 3 handicap over
1400m on April 10th. In the mix
3. BLACK CESS – Fair 3rd last time over 1400m at Parislongchamp in a Class 3 handicap on
April 28th. Among the leading chances
4. FLEXIBILITY – Unplaced on her last three runs, 3rd before that over 1600m in a Class 3
handicap at Chantilly on March 8th. Can be involved
5. POPPY CARREW – Nice 2nd last time over 1600m at Fontainebleau in a Class 4 race on May
3rd. Live chance
6. MISS MAI TAI – Two unplaced runs of late, 3rd before that over 1300m at Deauville in a
claimer. Opposable
7. FLEUR DE SEL – 3rd two runs back over 1600m at Saint-Cloud in a Class 4 race on April 12th.
Ought to be in the shake-up
8. BUTTE ROUGE – Unplaced last time, won before that over 1400m in a Class 3 handicap on
April 25th. Will not lack fitness and can not be ruled out
9. FINDON ROSE – Three unplaced runs of late, 2nd before that over 1300m at Deauville on
December 28th. Has work to do
10. WAZIERS – 2nd last time in a Class 3 handicap at Strasbourg over 1400m on May 8th. Needs
a few to falter
11. KASSAR SAID – Won three runs ago over 1400m in a Class 3 handicap on April 2nd. Others
rate higher
12. KIM KARALA – Won last time over 1400m at Deauville in a Class 4 handicap on April 10th.
Outside place chance
13. BASSAC – Fair 3rd over 1600m in a Class 4 race last time at Fontainebleau on May 3rd.
Place chance
Summary: POPPY CARREW (5) can get her second win in what looks like a moderate handicap.
She ran well when second on her latest outing earlier this month at Fontainebleau. PARURE DES
SABLES (1) can also be on the premises and faired well when fifth at Saint-Brieuc 11 days ago.
BLACK CESS (3) is one for the each-way backers to take seriously. SUNLIKE (2) has been
fourth on her last three runs and is sure to be involved at the business end.
SELECTIONS
POPPY CARREW (5) – PARURE DES SABLES (1) – BLACK CESS (3) – SUNLIKE (2)
R12 – PRIX REGION PACA – 2400m (a1m1/2) – TURF – Class 4 Race – Flat – EUR € 16,000
1. WILLY WINNER – Capable turf performer who has thrived on the PSF recently, finishing 2nd in
back-to-back handicaps before winning consecutive PSF outings (all at Lyon-La Soie). Only 7th in
a PSF 2400m handicap there on 24 March
2. TCHAKOVA – Arrives at the top of her game, having won 3 (on PSF) of 5 starts this season,
confirming the improvement of her seasonal reappearance (2nd). Finished 3rd in a Class 3
handicap over 3000m at Fontainebleau on 30 April
3. INTERSTELLA – Last-start winner of a 2000m PSF handicap at Marseille-Vivaux on 12 April.
Carries a 3,5kg penalty for that win on her return to turf but has sound references on this surface
– keep safe
4. SOLIMAN – Returned to form with an improved/encouraging 2nd in a 2400m handicap at LyonParilly on 8 May. Ought to be competitive with a repeat of that performance
5. BREIZH WOOD – Inconsistent hard-knocker. Performed consistently throughout 2023 but has
finished unplaced in all 5 starts this year, though didn’t go unnoticed when 5th over 2600m in a
handicap at Marseille-Borely on 3 May
6. BAILEYS ECLAIR – Consistent, hard-knocking handicapper seldom far off the mark. Has
finished 7th in consecutive handicaps recently, the latest in a 2000m handicap at Marseille-Borely
on 3 May
7. GLACIER PEAK – Unreliable performer but, judged on his best references, is undeniably
capable of getting into the picture in a race of this nature. Only 9th in a 2000m handicap at
Marseille-Borely on 3 May – should do better over 2400m
8. DIANE’STAR – Versatile handicapper with references in handicaps on both surfaces. Wasn’t
disgraced when finishing 7th in a 2400m Quinte+ handicap at Lyon-Parilly on 8 May so isn’t
without a chance – dark horse
9. PAIDEIA – Performed inconsistently in handicaps last year. Hasn’t been seen since finishing
13th in a PSF handicap over 1900m at Deauville on 19 October
10. ZILYA – Caught the eye when finishing an improved/encouraging 2nd in a 2600m conditions
race Nîmes on 28 April. Confirmation required
Summary: Lightly raced mare TCHAKOVA (2) is at the top of her game – all 3 of her career wins
achieved on the PSF this year – and continues to improve. She proved her efficiency and
competitiveness on the turf by finishing 3rd in a stronger race (handicap) off this mark last time,
so needs only to repeat that performance to win this Class 4 conditions event. SOLIMAN (4), who
was a reassuring 2nd in his latest outing, and last-start winner INTERSTELLA (3) are her obvious
dangers, with the shortlist made up of BREIZH WOOD (5), GLACIER PEAK (7) and ZILYA (10)
who are potential place-getters.
SELECTIONS
TCHAKOVA (2) – SOLIMAN (4) – INTERSTELLA (3) – BREIZH WOOD (5)
R13 – PRIX RAMUS – 2400m (a1m1/2) – TURF – Class 4 Race – Flat – EUR € 16,000
1. L’ENFANT TERRIBLE – Won two runs back over 2500m at Le Croise Laroche on April 20th in
a Class 4 handicap. Looks vulnerable
2. BLACK HAWK – Nice 2nd over 3000m in a Class 3 handicap last time at Fontainebleau on
April 30th. Ought to be involved
3. ESTCOURT – Won last time over 2400m in a Class 4 race at Saint-Cloud on May 10th. One to
keep safe
4. BARC – Nice 3rd last time at Lyon Parilly on May 8th in a Class 3 handicap over 2400m. In the
mix
5. SHAMSABAD – Has dropped in the ratings and ran well when 3rd at Saint-Cloud three runs
back over 2400m in mid-March. Player
6. NIGHTDANCE MAN – Unplaced on the last four runs, 4th before that over 3100m at SaintCloud on October 5th in a Class 3 handicap. Others make more appeal
7. SOGYNT – 4th last time over 2400m behind ESTCOURT (3) at Saint-Cloud on May 10th. Not
beaten far and is better off at with that rival at the weights this time
8. BLACK MORNING – Two unplaced runs of late, 3rd before that over 2000m in a Class 4
handicap on April 7th. Opposable
9. GUITRY – Has five unplaced runs this year, the latter over 2100m on May 5th in a Class 3
handicap. Out of form and can be avoided
10. THANKYOU – Unplaced last time, 4th before that over 2400m at Moulins on April 14th. Looks
capable and warrants respect
Summary: SHAMSABAD (5) could be the answer to this and get his eighth success. He was a
good third at Saint-Cloud in mid-March over 2400m and has dropped to a good handicap mark.
BARC (4) could be the one to give the selection the most to do. He has been running well of late
and was a pleasing third at Lyon Parilly earlier this month. THANKYOU (10) and BLACK HAWK
(2) look destined for minor honours.
SELECTIONS
SHAMSABAD (5) – BARC (4) – THANKYOU (10) – BLACK HAWK (2)
R14 – PRIX DE LA PATROUILLE DE FRANCE – 1800m (a1m1/8) – TURF – Maiden Race – Flat – EUR € 21,000
1. KOTGAR – Has performed consistently/competitively in his 3 outings and did improve when
finishing 3rd over 1800m at Marseille-Borély on 24 April. Will be a factor
2. COMTE DE LA ROSE – Improved with the benefit of an introductory outing (9th) to finish an
improved/encouraging 5th over 2000m at Marseille-Borély on 3 May. Could have more to offer
3. TOYOTOMI – Confirmed the promise of his debut 3rd at Marseille-Borély over 200m by
finishing 2nd over the same trip at Salon-de-Provence in November. Absent since finishing 3rd on
PSF over at Marseille-Viavux on 9 January
4. COMME QUOI – Runner-up on debut over 2000m at Salon-de-Provence and confirmed that
promise by finishing 2nd again at Marseille-Borély over 1800m on 24 April. Can go one better
5. LIGHTS OF REBEL – Likely to improve after finishing 7th on debut at Marseille-Borély over
2000m on 3 May. Dangerous to dismiss with progress on the cards
6. BAIGNADE – Patrice Cottier-trained Calyx filly to be ridden on debut by Marvin Grandin.
Shouldn’t be underestimated
7. MIZ SWEET – Birchwood debutante trained by Nicolas Bellanger, who has engaged Ludovic
Boisseau to ride this filly. Best watched for now
Summary: A small but competitive field for this 1800m maiden, though it could pay to side with
COMME QUOI (4) for whom it could be third time lucky after finishing 2nd in both starts – on
debut at Salon-de-Provence and at Marseille-Borély last time. KOTGAR (1) ought to make life
difficult for the selection. Jean-Claude Rouget’s runner has the form and experience to fight for
victory, which could also be said of TOYOTOMI (3). Improving COMTE DE LA ROSE (2) appeals
most of the remainder.
SELECTIONS
COMME QUOI (4) – KOTGAR (1) – TOYOTOMI (3) – COMTE DE LA ROSE (2)
R15 – PRIX DE LA VILLE DE SALON DE PROVENCE – RACE AND CARE – 1800m (a1m1/8) – TURF – Class
1 Race – Flat – EUR € 30,000
1. RIDE THE SKIES – Promising individual who improved to make a winning reappearance over
this distance at Marseille-Borely on 24 April. Should have more to offer
2. LINA – Talented filly with the best/strongest form references of the runners in this race –
finished 4th in a Listed race over 2100m at Toulouse on 21 April. Will be a factor
3. SOKNA – Last-start winner of a Class 3 conditions race over 1800m at ParisLongchamp on 5
May. Shoulders a 2,5kg penalty
4. PEPETE – Consistent filly with sound references/form credentials. Has finished 6th in all 3
starts this year, the latest at Marseille-Borely over 2100m on 10 May
5. DANCING QUEEN – Opened her account over 1600m at La Teste in March, beating
subsequent Tarbes maiden winner Baggala. Only 7th of 8 in a 1600m Class 1 conditions event at
ParisLongchamp on 18 April – can improve going 1800m
6. FRANCAISE – The second of Jean-Claude Rouget’s runners in the race. Confirmed the
improvement of her previous outing (victory) by finishing 2nd over 1800m at La Test on 10 April –
not taken lightly
Summary: On the evidence of his winning reappearance at Marseile-Borély last month, RIDE
THE SKIES (1) is good value to follow up in this Class 1 conditions event with improvement
expected of him. Jean-Claude Rouget is doubly represented and his runners ought to be
competitive for the leading places, though preference is for LINA (2) who caught the eye (4th) in a
Listed race at Toulouse last time. Stablemate FRANCAISE (6) shouldn’t be underestimated
either, while DANCING QUEEN (5) is unexposed and can make her presence felt too.
SELECTIONS
RIDE THE SKIES (1) – LINA (2) – FRANCAISE (6) – DANCING QUEEN (5)
R16 – PRIX DU CONSEIL DEPARTEMENTAL – 1800m (a1m1/8) – TURF – Class 4 Claiming Handicap – Flat – EUR € 13,000
1. ARCUBIATU – Shot up the weights/ratings a total of 6kg after winning back-to-back handicaps
in March before proving his competitiveness off this mark by finishing 4th in a 1600m conditions
race at Lyon-Parilly on 17 April. Can win
2. VALYRIAN STEEL – Well-traveled veteran with sound references, including a 1700m
conditions race success at Marseille-Borely on 3 May. Finished 7th over 2000m at that venue last
time (10 May)
3. AQUILON – Ultra-consistent performer in two 2022 outings and throughout 2023 but hasn’t
been in the same form in his 4 starts this year, though did finish 4th at this level two starts back.
Only 10th in a 2000m handicap on 3 May
4. GRECIAN STAR – Didn’t go unnoticed when finishing 6th in a 1600m claimer at Fontainebleau
on 3 May. Could improve to have a say here
5. NOSHOWONFRIDAY – Unplaced in all 5 starts this year and was soundly beaten in his last
four – the latest (10th) over 1600m at Lyon on 17 April
6. KELLY KEY – Won consecutive outings at Royan La Palmyre and Bordeaux last year but has
been soundly beaten in her 2 starts this year – the latest (7th) over 1400m in a handicap at
Toulouse on 21 April
7. MOUTRAKI – Has finished in the first four in 9 of 13 appearances at Salon-de-Provence,
winning four times. Caugh the eye when 5th on a 2000m handicap at Marseille-Borely on 10 May
8. GOLDINO BELLO – Won consecutive outings, albeit at a lower level, last month and showed
his form/well-being by finishing 5th in a 2000m conditions race at Lyon-Parilly on 9 May. Will be a
factor
9. KING OF MEADOWS – Has achieved his best references (both wins) on the PSF but isn’t
incapable of finding the frame on turf after finishing 4th and 7th in consecutive 2000m races at
this level recently – the latest at Fontainebleau on 30 April
Summary: Judged on the form of his back-to-back handicap victories at Saint-Cloud and
Compiègne in March, ARCUBIATU (1) could be the one to side with in this claiming contest.
GOLDINO BELLO (8), who also won consecutive starts before his latest outing (5th), is likely to
pose the biggest threat to the selection. MOUTRAKI (7) enjoys this Salon-de-Provence layout
and could make his presence felt along with inconsistent VALYRIAN STEEL (2) who isn’t
incapable of staking a claim either.
SELECTIONS
ARCUBIATU (1) – GOLDINO BELLO (8) – MOUTRAKI (7) – VALYRIAN STEEL (2)
R17 – PRIX ROGER ET EDGAR CHASTIN – 2000m (a1m1/4) – TURF – Handicap – Flat – EUR € 20,000
1. SKIMBLESHANKS – Consistent performer with sound references/form credentials, including a
last-start 4th in a 2600m handicap at Marseille-Borely on 10 May. Keep safe
2. LINARIA – Runner-up in three of her last four starts, including on handicap debut at LyonParilly on 27 April over 2400m. Winning chance
3. DABASIR – Ultra-consistent performer in the claiming category on both turf and PSF – finished
3rd in consecutive recent outings at that level, the latest over 2000m on turf at Marseille-Borely
on 3 May
4. CLASH OF CURRENTS – Built on the improvement made this season to open his account
over 1700m at Marseille-Borely on 10 May. Should remain competitive under a 2,5kg penalty
5. INSTANTANEMENT – Made a winning turf debut in a 2000m handicap at Marseille-Borely on
24 April. Not discounted under 2,5kg penalty
6. SOMMERDANCE – Last-start winner of a minor 2000m conditions contest at Angoulême on 14
April. This demands more of her
7. MOUJDAB – Showed signs of improvement when finishing 4th in a 1600m conditions race at
Cavaillon on 4 May. Place chance
8. FACINATRICE – Unplaced in all four outings this year, the latest (8th) in a 1600m conditions
race at Cavaillon on 4 May. Others preferred
Summary: LINARIA (2) has finished 2nd in 3 of her last 4 starts, including her latest outing in a
handicap over 2400m at Lyon-Parilly and, on the strength of that form, should prove too good for
the opposition with a repeat of that performance over this shorter distance. DABASIR (3), who
has achieved good results in the claiming category, reverts to the handicap division with
legitimate ambitions. Consistent SKIMBLESHANKS (1), CLASH OF CURRENTS (4) and
MOUJDAB (7) complete the shortlist.
SELECTIONS
LINARIA (2) – DABASIR (3) – SKIMBLESHANKS (1) – CLASH OF CURRENTS (4)
