3 minute read
The Speed Test!
The Prix De France Speed Race (G1) is the ultimate test for elite horses to race against both each other and the clock. A designated draw from behind the barrier adds to the excitement as driver tactics are key. Following the challenge of the Prix d'Amerique (G1) run over the Classic journey of 2700m two weeks ago, competitors will re-oppose over a 600m shorter sprint distance. With plenty of course and distance specialists in the field, it is expected to be a competitive renewal of the Group One contest…
Don Fanucci Jet
Out-ran odds to finish sixth in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Struggled over course and distance in the Prix du Bourgogne (G2) prior and will need to show more.
Hohneck
Racing consistently at the top level and cannot be dismissed. Good fifth in the Prix d'Amerique (G1) and has a better record in these conditions with two wins and four placings from seven attempts. Capable of a big run.
Hooker Berry
Resounding winner of the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Form over course and distance is of concern as he is yet to win and has recorded only one placing from five attempts. In good order and race-fit having been campaigned extensively throughout the winter meeting. Cannot be dismissed being the recent Prix d'Amerique (G1) hero.
Vivid Wise As
DQ in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Excels over 1609m and has a strong record at this distance (three wins/three placings from seven attempts). Recorded a victory in this race last year and the Prix Rene Balliere (G1) last June and can bounce back to winning ways. Drawn to win.
Ampia Mede Sm
Excellent second in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Expected to be better over course and distance with a fair record in these conditions of three wins and a placing from five attempts. Contender from this gate.
Fado du Chene
Returns to driven company after a second in the Prix du Calvados (G2) and a DQ in the Prix de Cornulier (G1). Driven form isn't up to this standard.
Vernissage Grif
Shown little in three French starts and would need to improve considerably. DQ when out of contention in Prix d'Amerique (G1).
Cokstile
Hard to fancy on recent runs. Won the Yonkers International in October but has been unplaced since.
Delia du Pommereux
Winner of this race in 2021. Scored by 1L in the Prix du Bourgogne (G2) over course and distance but has struggled since including a DQ in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Not dismissed back racing under preferred mobile conditions. Draw is not a disadvantage.
Beads
Interesting recent recruit for the Bazire stable from the USA. Showed promise in French starts so far including a confident 3.5L win in the course and distance Prix du Luxembourg (G3). Could spring a surprise. Awkwardly drawn and needs to be on the pace to produce best. .
Go On Boy
One of few competitors in the field who did not contest the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Good record over track and trip with one win/two placings from five attempts. Last seen finishing second in G3 Prix de Brest. Tougher test.
Decoloration
DQ in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Runner-up in the Prix de Belgique (G2) prior. Would need to step up to find the placings.
Horsy Dream
Put together a string of four wins prior to an eighth in the Prix d'Amerique (G1). Form of Prix Tenor du Baune (G1) win in December suggests he can show more.
Dear Friend
Steps up in class after a second in the Prix du Luxembourg (G3) over course and distance. Not the best of the Swedish runners and this looks a tough assigment.
Honey Mearas
Top level Swedish performer with a recent win in the Stoeliten Fors (G1) in his native land. Boasts sixteen wins and seven placings from 31 starts. Not to be judged on French debut seventh and could improve.
Gu d'Heripre
DQ in both Prix d'Amerique (G1) qualifiers. Best recent form falls short of this although holds a good record over course and distance with three wins from seven attempts.
Hip Hop Haufor
Unable to make the frame since winning the Prix de Bretagne (G2). Returned to better order with a fourth in the Prix d'Amerique (G1) but has never won over this distance.
Imhatra Am
Swedish trained five-year-old. Racing well in France including a second over course and distance in the Critérium Continental (G1). Recent sixth in the Prix Bold Eagle (G1) suggests she may need to find improvement.