LE CROISE-LAROCHE - 23rd May

Trainer of the day : Matthieu Abrivard (305, 506)

Jockey of the day : Yoann Lebourgeois (102, 304, 605, 705, 813)

Horse of the day : Eadshot Josselyn (706)

Dark Horse : Busy Money Ringeat (310)

Race 1 1. VIVIEN - Decent type making his second appearance since the spell. Has found his niche in the other discipline and is not a priority

2. BLUES DES LANDIERS - Hardy sort that has been entrusted to Lebourgeois following a good Fougeres run. Stays shod but still looks a player

3. UN CHER AMI - Not the most dependable but has ability. Steps up in class but will nonetheless have his supporters

4. VIKING FROMENTRO - Useful type but has placed just once from five this term. Goes barefoot this time though and could get a look in

5. BE BOP HAUFOR - Won four on the trot before being sent for a spell. Makes his second start back and with shoes off again can play a leading role

6. CLASS DE LORIOL - Not the easiest horse to handle but has bags of talent. Finished second in a Vincennes G.III eleven days ago and even though up against her elders here should still give a competitive account

7. BALANDO - Regularly gives everything he has. Third to (12) CLEANGAME in a similar event early March. Has had time to freshen up and with a 25m advantage this time will have his chances

8. BELLINE D'URZY - Unplaced in all five this year. Unable to express herself at Vincennes last time but still a minor place chance at best

9. ATHENA DES RAVAUX - Won on comeback at Laval late April before prepping shod at Vincennes. Hind shoes off this time and must be afforded respect

10. AFRICAIN - Surprise third in the Lyon edition last month. Failed to confirm at Enghien next time and the second-line start will do him no favours

11. BEST DU HAUTY - Moderate type that has yet to set off any fireworks this term but still not to be overlooked for a minor place

12. CLEANGAME - Superb sort that has won the last two GNT editions. Unbeaten in his last five and again the pick of the field

13. CADUCEUS DES BAUX - Excellent servant in the ridden code but seldom leaves his mark under harness and can be ruled out

14. BAHIA QUESNOT - Not the most rewarding of trotters but encouraged in a Vincennes Class B last month and will not be available at 59-1 this time around

15. ANETTE DU MIREL - Has not been particularly productive for some time and will have little to offer

16. COUP DROIT - Fine campaigner that made an encouraging re-entry despite the sanction. Will have come on for the run and with application should figure prominently

Summary After five straight successes since starting to race shod again the excellent (12) CLEANGAME incurs the penalty here but still looks to have the edge over Christian Bigeon's (5) BE BOP HAUFOR even though the latter has never been beaten when barefoot and starts with a 25m advantage. (16) COUP DROIT has nothing to prove at this level of competition and with application should be able to run the first two close. After finishing third to the favourite at La Capelle (7) BALANDO is in receipt of distance to him here and looks to be competitively well in. (6) CLASS DE LORIOL got back in the game last time and must also be respected.

Selections

(12) CLEANGAME - (5) BE BOP HAUFOR - (16) COUP DROI T - (7) BALANDO

- (6) CLASS DE LORIOL - (4) VIKING FROMENTRO - (13) CADUCEUS DES BAUX - (2) BLUES DES LANDIERS

Race 2 1. BEBERT DU VARLET - Has demonstrated excellent consistency over last two months. In somewhat better company here but worth noting all the same

2. BELLA NONNA - Has not been seen in the frame since trotting second here last autumn and not an obvious choice

3. CAZAUBON DAIRPET - Has done nothing but progress of late. Finished ahead of (5) BIJOU DU REZ at La Capelle and could again make the first five

4. COQ D'AVRAN - Has turned a corner lately. Won with ease at La Rochelle two weeks ago and from the front line can double his money

5. BIJOU DU REZ - Good consistent sort that raced better at La Capelle than the result suggests. Is well positioned here and should not be far off the mark

6. CARLITA DU KLAU - Went into her spell in good shape. Comes here fresh and from the first line can play a role

7. VADELLE SHEBA - Fine mare in this class of race but has not been seen out since January and will need the run

8. VA VITE DE CARO - Has made no impact since returning from his enforced layoff and can be disregarded

9. BELLA LAUMA - Completely out of the picture so far and will have nothing to offer

10. VIC FOR EVER - Pleases for the most part when applied. Is confirmed at this level and should not be overlooked

11. VALEUREUSE D'INES - Has looked very ordinary for some time and little chance of influencing the outcome

12. ATCHOUM PAN - Surprise fourth at La Capelle recently but chances of a repeat slim at best

13. BARON DU BISET - Pleased on first start for new trainer after winning a claimer. Drops back in class and looks a major player

14. ARABOLE DU VARLET - Showed signs of encouragement at Arras earlier this month but is better under the saddle and no realistic chance

15. VIEUX LILLE - Solid in three of last four but failed to fire at Vincennes. On the third row this time and with shoes on can be passed over

16. VENT DU CIEL - Fine campaigner with nothing to prove at this level. On the back line here but can still make the frame

Summary

Recent winner in this category at La Rochelle when giving away distance (4) COQ D'AVRAN starts on the front line this time and has every chance of doubling his money. Lecoq will however want to be wary of the useful (13) BARON DU BISET who was bought out of a claimer late march. (16) VENT DU CIEL starts on the third line but seldom disappoints when applied and given current form must be considered a serious threat. (5) BIJOU DU REZ is rarely far off the mark at this level and will have his chances. (6) CARLITA DU KLAU comes here fresh and should make the most of her front-line start.

Selections

(4) COQ D'AVRAN - (13) BARON DU BISET - (16) VENT D U CIEL - (5) BIJOU DU REZ - (6) CARLITA DU KLAU

Race 3 1. PAYMYBILLS DIAMANT - Fine German trotter that made a promising comeback following a long layoff. Is barefoot on the front line and looks a player

2. BON PARCOURS - In the frame in three of last four and well placed in front but has no love for Le Croise-Laroche and can be passed over

3. BRITNEY DE JAMAC - Fine campaigner in the other code. Here for reasons of conditioning and no threat

4. HANK VON HALERYD - Excellent Swedish import making his first appearance for new trainer. Is behind in earnings and could pleasantly surprise

5. ELDRICK BOKO - Serious trotter that made a superb comeback in a Vincennes Class B. Lost his action next time but is well positioned in front and if applied can win this

6. ATMAN DE BA - Delicate sort that tends to go better in the amateur division but breaks in front here and will have his supporters

7. AIRBORNE - Has raced just three times - unsuccessfully - in past 18 months and will struggle to leave his mark

8. BLEU PETROLE - Has done nothing noteworthy under harness since April 2014. Enough said

9. RIVIERA AS - Handy sort but not the most courageous. Incurs the penalty and not an obvious choice

10. BUSY MONEY RINGEAT - Has won four of her last six starts at the venue. Will be fit by now and with hind shoes off must not be underestimated

11. PICARD DEL RONCO - Got back in the game in a tough La Capelle event early May and appears to have a role to play here

12. VERSO DE MADE - Not the most reliable and no realistic chance after a long winter break

13. BANQUIERE - Has placed just once in last 19 starts and no chance on first start after the spell

14. ALPHA JET JEGO - Decent sort that knows the track well. Is barefoot for the occasion and will have his chances

15. BAHAMAS QUICK - Has not been firing on all cylinders this term but is useful on a good day and must be worth a small consideration

16. AS DE MUZE - Has been very hard to fault this year so far. Boasts a good record at the venue and switches back to harness racing with a realistic chance of imposing

Summary (5) ELDRICK BOKO can prove a handful but he has taken well to French conditions. He left quite the impression in a good bunch on re-entry at Vincennes and could well win this if he can keep his action together. (16) AS DE MUZE starts 25m worse off but has been in flying form this year and his liking for the track is not in doubt. (1) PAYMYBILLS DIAMANT appears to have lost nothing since his enforced absence and returns to France with justified ambition. (11) PICARD DEL RONCO made up for lost time at La Capelle recently and can play an active role. (4) HANK VON HALERYD makes his debut for Guarato and from the first line can get in on the action.

Selections

(5) ELDRICK BOKO - (16) AS DE MUZE - (1) PAYMYBILLS DIAMANT - (11) PICARD DEL RONCO - (4) HANK VON HALERYD

Race 4 1. CLIO DU GEER - Has been a total disappointment in both codes for the past year and no threat

2. COME BACK - Moderate sort that has yet to show any aptitude for ridden competition and can expect to have few friends

3. DELABELLE MIKA - Returned to productive ways at Nantes despite traffic problems and with form maintained should figure prominently

4. CESAR DES LUCAS - Decent sort that left a good impression on recent debut under the saddle and if applied should be able to pick up a cheque

5. DANCER FOR MONEY - Has been a revelation under the saddle in recent months. Won his last two here and can pick up a third success if he can get off on the right foot

6. CHAMBON TONIQUE - Seldom wins but regularly gives a good account and a repeat of his Mauquenchy effort would see him make the first five

7. COMTESSE DE SEE - Hardy sort in this branch of the game. Has one race in her and looks a player on return to her preferred discipline

8. CHARMEUSE DU GADE - Returned modestly this year following a long layoff and will have her work cut out

9. CARLA DU CAMPDOS - Encouraged in a minor event late last month but is not without merit and will have her supporters

10. COCKTAIL CHEF - Completely off the boil for some time and has no realistic chance

11. DOUCE ILLUSION - Delicate mare that regularly bites off more than she can chew and unlikely to influence the result

12. CALIFORNIA ZEN - Has yet to make any impact in the specialty and in current form can be ruled out

13. CHEYOTTE TURGOT - Gives a good account for the most part. Returns to a hard surface and should be good enough to make the frame this time

Summary Once (5) DANCER FOR MONEY can assure his initial strides he is seldom far from the action and given his two recent course-and-distance successes he once again looks the pick of the field. (3) DELABELLE MIKA reaffirmed at Nantes two weeks ago and in similar form should be able to make a big impact. The hardy (13) CHEYOTTE TURGOT should be able to make amends for his recent lacklustre Rambouillet performance on his return to a hard surface while a barefoot (7) COMTESSE DE SEE makes a reappearance in her code of

preference.

Selections

(5) DANCER FOR MONEY - (3) DELABELLE MIKA - (13) CH EYOTTE TURGOT - (7) COMTESSE DE SEE

Race 5 1. FLYING BRICKELL - Won over longer here early last month and was not disgraced at Caen next time. Unlikely to win but can still pick up some prizemoney

2. FIRST D'OCCAGNES - Consistently gives everything he has. Good spot behind the car and could get a look in

3. FAYETTE TILLY - Erratic but reassured at La Capelle recently. Is well-positioned in front and a similar effort would see her finish in the mix

4. FANTASTIC FILLY - Not the most appropriately named of trotters. Has made the frame just once from ten and will have too much to do

5. FILOU DU BERGER - Impressive in both starts last month. Not at his ease at Mauquenchy next time but can make amends

6. FAST CASH - Well-regarded colt that scored first time out. Still somewhat tricky but has ideal conditions under which to get back in the game

7. FUNKY ROCK - Decent sort that has demonstrated very good aptitude for the game. Can prove a handful but with application could have his way here

8. FIRST THING FIRST - Second on debut before opening her account with authority next time. Is up against the boys here but a player all the same

9. FOLKLORE DE BOMO - Showed promise on debut before improving at Le Mans next time and on this trajectory will have his chances

Summary After an impressively successful debut at Laval early March (6) FAST CASH has since failed to confirm but his ability is not in doubt and under these favourable conditions could well return to winning ways. (7) FUNKY ROCK is similarly well-regarded and although still somewhat green can make a big impact if applied. (8) FIRST THING FIRST has done everything right so far and and despite the draw still looks to be in with a decent shout. (9) FOLKLORE DE BOMO looks a progressive sort and will also have his chances.

Selections

(6) FAST CASH - (7) FUNKY ROCK - (8) FIRST THING FI RST - (9) FOLKLORE DE BOMO

Race 6 1. GREENSPAN - Pleased in two of his three ridden starts but is in good company here and will have his work cut out

2. AOLA DU VAUTOUR - Kicked the year off nicely but has since lost her way and even with shoes off this time will still have a lot to find

3. AIGLE DE LA VALLEE - Very disappointing under harness this term. Switches codes but still unlikely to redeem himself

4. BLUE GIRL DU FER - Dynamic this year so far since returning to the ridden discipline. Is confirmed at the venue and the front-line start does her chances no disservice

5. DAME ALKI - Somewhat new to the game but has shown considerable aptitude and with stride in check can impose from the first line

6. BALOU DU PAOU - Acquits himself honourably for the most part but faces better here and not an obvious choice

7. AULYNX D'ANY - Not the most reliable but encouraged at La Soie last month. Is better right-handed but still not to be overlooked

8. VERY PAN - A complete write-off for some time and will have few takers

9. UNIAXE EREM - Has placed just once from nine this season and has no realistic chance

10. AMAZONE DU MONT - Seldom far from the action in this code when applied and while not a leading contender can still pick up a cheque

11. BELLINO D'AUVRECY - Has been solid since returning to competition. Makes debut under the saddle but in current form looks a player

12. BARACK - Hardy type that won in style at Vincennes last time in the discipline and is not incapable of repeating

13. A PRIORI - Has done nothing but improve since returning to his code of preference and recent Vincennes performance augurs well for his chances

Summary Although somewhat tricky (5) DAME ALKI has taken very well to her new vocation and could have finished close at Vincennes last time had she not faulted. On good behaviour though she has every chance of imposing from the first line. (12) BARACK has not been seen under the saddle since winning in style on the short course early April and even though 25m worse off this time can still expect significant support. (11) BELLINO D'AUVRECY debuts in the specialty and if form transitions his place is in the frame. (13) A PRIORI is not one to be underestimated in this code and should give another competitive account.

Selections

(5) DAME ALKI - (12) BARACK - (11) BELLINO D'AUVREC Y - (13) A PRIORI

Race 7 1. EBENE DU LOGIS - Unremarkable filly still chasing that elusive first win and has no realistic chance

2. EZRAKITE - Decent trotter stepping back up in distance. Is confirmed over the trip and can make the most of his good spot behind the car

3. EMBRUN DE MAI - Extremely complicated gelding that is plagued by stride problems and will not be easy to trust

4. ENERGETIC - Serious sort that showed a lot of class last season. Stays shod after the spell and if fit can play a leading role

5. ELEGANTE DELO - Delicate type but otherwise gives everything she has and on good behaviour can go close

6. EADSHOT JOSSELYN - Like a horse reborn since going unshod behind. Winner of five already this season and is sufficiently well placed to pull off a sixth

7. EVEREST DE BLARY - Undeniably capable but has lost his way this year and must reaffirm

8. ESTAK GENTIL - Has been giving a good account since his return to competition but stays shod and others preferred

9. ELIO MANNETOT - Opened his account at Chartres two weeks ago at first try with Franck Ouvrie. Same formula here and must be one to note

10. ESPIT CHUPITOS - Good consistent individual that won on comeback over the distance before losing his action next time but with stride maintained can pick up a cheque

11. EASY DES FLICS - Has taken no time getting back in the game. Beat his personal best at Reims last month and is sure to have his supporters

12. EREBOR - In the frame in all but one race he has finished but will need to improve on recent La Capelle performance

13. ELUE DU GADE - Showed promise last autumn but very disappointing this term and can be passed over

14. EXTRA DU CHATAULT - Boasts an excellent record at the venue. Won over the distance here on comeback and despite the second-line draw will be a tough rival

15. EROS DU CHOQUEL - Sanctioned as often as not but a useful colt nonetheless. Has previously imposed under these conditions and must be respected

16. ETERNAL WOOD - Still a maiden from 24. Can prove a handful but is not devoid of talent and despite the draw should not be overlooked

Summary (6) EADSHOT JOSSELYN has been nothing short of dynamic this year winning five of the six races he has finished. He will be reined by Matthieu Abrivard for the first time and could well add another success to his tally but he can expect to face opposition from the classy and fresh (4) ENERGETIC who is better positioned behind the car. (14) EXTRA DU CHATAULT won over course and distance on comeback late March and although on the second line this time is still a major player. Lebourgeois has kept the faith with (5) ELEGANTE DELO and if applied should make her presence felt. (2) EZRAKITE has ability and can make the first five.

Selections

(6) EADSHOT JOSSELYN - (4) ENERGETIC - (14) EXTRA D U CHATAULT - (5) ELEGANTE DELO - (2) EZRAKITE

Race 8 1. DEXTER DE MAI - Very hard to fault this term and recently beat his personal best. Is confirmed here and has every chance of imposing

2. DJINA DE PILLIERE - Has made no impact on the track for some time and despite the draw still has her work cut out

3. DIAMANT DE MONCHEL - In the frame in two of last three. Races in his category here and from the 3-spot can give this a good go

4. DOUCHKA D'ORMOY - Reliability not her strong suit but is fresh and well positioned in front. Minor place chance

5. DIVA DU VERGER - Reassured at Bernay earlier in the month. Is well-placed in front and should not be far off the mark

6. DORLIC DU PALAIS - Appears to be heading back to his best. Has a very good entry here and can make the frame

7. DARQUANA DU NORD - Lost her way in the latter half of last year. Unraced since and no chance

8. DJAB D'ACIER - Pleased in two of last three when unshod behind but shoes on here and not a priority

9. DUC DE LARRE - Decent trotter but has not been seen out since December and will need the run

10. DAGUET - In the frame in two of three this term but steps up in class and will need to find more

11. DUC D'OR - Imposed here last month before a solid run at Le Mans. On the second line this time but one to note all the same

12. DILF DE CHAMANT - Recently made his comeback from a long absence. Has never shown any liking for the venue and can be ruled out

13. DROTTNING VIKING - Good class of trotter with form at a better level. Has just one race in her but can still make a big splash

14. DECLIC DU SOLEIL - Tricky sort dropping marginally back in class. Will be reined by a top driver and will have his chances

15. DIVIN DE BOUGY - Regularly gives his best when applied but starts wide on the second line and will not find this an easy test

16. DESIREZ MOI - Moderate sort that has shown improvement lately but has little going for him here and can be passed over

Summary

Something of an open race this but it is hard to ignore the in-form (1) DEXTER DE MAI who has been enjoying a productive run so far this year. He left a very good impression here late March and from the 1-spot can have his way this time. (13) DROTTNING VIKING is on the second line and may be one race shy but on a normal day would have the measure of most of this field and looks a player. (6) DORLIC DU PALAIS has been solid of late and together with the reinvigorated (5) DIVA DU VERGER can challenge for a spot in the frame. (14) DECLIC DU SOLEIL has placed just once this term but can still pick up a cheque in a race of this nature.

Selections

(1) DEXTER DE MAI - (13) DROTTNING VIKING - (6) DORLIC DU PALAIS - (5) DIVA DU VERGER - (14) DECLIC DU SOLEIL

LE LION-D'ANGERS - 23rd May

Trainer of the day : Guy Cherel (201, 403, 504)

Jockey of the day : Alexandre Roussel (201, 403, 903)

Horse of the day : Mathonville (901)

Dark Horse : Post Var (810)

Race 1 1. DENALIE BELLEVUE - She is two wins from twenty five career starts but will need to improve to feature here

2. EARLY BLACK - Not devoid of ability and won a claiming hurdle at Toulouse in February. Tough test here

3. MAINMISE - Won two in a row early last year and is not ruled out after two recent comeback runs

4. DIAMANT BLEU - Won a handicap chase at Sandown in March but well beaten at Compiegne last time out

5. DECIDEE ALLEN - She won over hurdles last year and an easy winner of a chase at Moulins last month. Leading player

6. DJANGO D'ALENE - Off the mark on his penultimate start at Argentan but well beaten at Auteuil last time out

7. DEBUT DE PRINTEMPS - One win from eleven career runs and well beaten in his last two starts at Auteuil. Place prospects

8. DAIM PIERJI - Has not run since December 10th when pulling up in a chase at Angers. Hard to recommend

9. DOUCE DU MAFFRAY - Nine length winner of a chase at Morlaix ten days ago and not ruled out of a place here

10. DAFFODIL ROSE - Won first two starts last year but has fallen and been pulled in two runs so far this year

Summary (5) DECIDEE ALLEN recorded her second career success with an impressive thirty length victory in a chase at Moulins last month. She looks to have found a good opportunity to follow up on that here today. (3) MAINMISE has had a couple of runs recently over hurdles and should be spot on here today so must be respected. (7) DEBUT DE PRINTEMPS and (9) DOUCE DU MAFFRAY are next

best.

Selections

(5) DECIDEE ALLEN - (3) MAINMISE - (7) DEBUT DE PRI NTEMPS - (9) DOUCE DU MAFFRAY

Race 2 1. DAGUET - Third behind Dreamer Star on his reappearance at Durtal last month. Should be spot on here

2. DIOCESE - Won a Class E race at Morlaix ten days ago and can be in the mix again today

3. DANZAR - Is zero wins from nine career starts and will need to improve to have a chance here

4. DEMOISELLE D'ANGE - Won a Class E race at Durtal earlier this month but will find this a tougher test today

5. DEESSE MOME - Runner up behind (2) DIOCESE in a Class E race at Morlaix ten days ago

6. DIVINE GARDE - Well beaten in all three of her career starts to date and hard to recommend here

Summary Third on his reappearance at Durtal last month (1) DAGUET had won his last two runs of 2017 at Guingamp and Pornichet. He should be back to full fitness today and can add to his winning tally here. (2) DIOCESE had (5) DEESSE MOME back in second when winning at Morlaix ten days ago and can confirm those placings. (4) DEMOISELLE D'ANGE is next best.

Selections

(1) DAGUET - (2) DIOCESE - (5) DEESSE MOME - (4) DEMOISELLE D'ANGE

Race 3 1. KING DE TEILLEE - A faller last time out but a consistent performer in cross-country chases. Not ruled out

2. BORNTOLOVEYOU - Runner up behind Naday Idef in a Cross Country race here last month and one for the short list today

3. GREAT HORIZON - Three wins from fifty career starts but will need to find something from somewhere here

4. TAMELO DE VAUT - Just the one win from forty four starts and likely to find a few too good again today

5. SILVERADO - Dual winner from thirty six starts. Has a bit to find on the evidence of recent form

6. BOLANO D'AIRY - A faller on his reappearance here this month but had some decent form in the past

7. LASKOF - Just the one win from nineteen career starts but is capable of running in to a place here

8. NEWPREZI - Had some decent form back in 2016 but well beaten in his two runs so far this year

Summary A winner in this discipline at Le Dorat in August of last year (2) BORNTOLOVEYOU ran well when runner up behind Naday Idef at this track last month. She is the selection to record just her second career success today. (1) KING DE TEILLEE won three Cross Country races in a row last year and cannot be ruled out. (6) BOLANO D'AIRY and (7) LASKOF are next best.

Selections

(2) BORNTOLOVEYOU - (1) KING DE TEILLEE - (6) BOLAN O D'AIRY - (7) LASKOF

Race 4 1. ESTERLIN - Placed in a few of his seven outings but will have to do more here to feature

2. EKAYALI - Well beaten in both of his career starts last year at Cholet and Le Mans and needs to improve

3. ESPRIT FIXE - Pulled up at Auteuil over hurdles last time out but third in a maiden at Cluny before that. Respected

4. ETOILE DES AULMES - Third in a Class E race at Vannes earlier this month. Stiffer test today

5. EMBLEMATIX - Unplaced on her debut at Vannes earlier this month and is hard to recommend

6. ENNZA DE FROM - Third behind Ecoute En Tete in a Class E race at Machecoul last month and can be in the mix here

7. ELISA DES OBEAUX - Had some decent placed efforts last year and must be respected on reappearance today

8. ELKA STAR - Unplaced in first four outings but runner up to Elvira in a Class E race here this month

9. EL PAZ - By Ange Gabriel and is the second foal to run out of a dam that has produced a winner

10. EXCELL - By Saint Des Saints and is a half brother to Rushwell who was a Grade Three chase winner

Summary (7) ELISA DES OBEAUX is having her first start of 2018 but she had some decent placed form and was fourth behind Eveilduboulay in a Group Three AQ at Durtal last time out in November. She can break her maiden tag today. (6) ENNZA DE FROM was a fair third at Machecoul last month and looks the main danger. (3) ESPRIT FIXE and (8) ELKA STAR are next best.

Selections

(7) ELISA DES OBEAUX - (6) ENNZA DE FROM - (3) ESPR IT FIXE - (8) ELKA STAR

Race 5 1. AMIRANDE - Six time winner from forty seven including over hurdles at Dieppe this month. Can be in the mix

2. SILVER DU BRIZAIS - Won over hurdles at Carcassone ten days ago but faces a stiffer test here today

3. CABOY - Won a chase by two lengths at Meslay-Du-Maine last month but faces better opposition here

4. DEFI D'OUDAIRIES - Runner up behind Realm Keeper in a handicap chase at Compiegne this month. Big player

5. SURELY TRY - Third behind Realm Keeper in a handicap chase at Compiegne this month and can go close again today

6. OK DARLING - Fourth on his reappearance at Morlaix ten days ago and did have some fair form last year

7. GHUR - A close third in a chase here last month and should come on from that run

8. SET DANCER - Second in a Listed chase here in May 2017 but has has struggled in six runs since then

9. APICULTEUR - Fourth behind Curoya Debois in a chase here last month. More required today

10. NADAY IDEF - Has won four of her last five Cross Country races but faces a much tougher test here

Summary (4) DEFI D'OUDAIRIES had half a length to spare over (5) SURELY TRY when they were second and third behind Realm Keeper in a handicap chase at Compiegne earlier this month. He is the selection to confirm those placings today. (1) AMIRANDE got back to winning ways over hurdles at Dieppe this month and can be in the mix here. (7) GHUR can make the frame.

Selections

(4) DEFI D'OUDAIRIES - (5) SURELY TRY - (1) AMIRAND E - (7) GHUR

Race 6 1. MAN TO MAN - Placed once in four runs and will need to step up even in this weak claimer

2. LARME D'AMOUR - Just the one place in five runs but such is the weak nature of this event she has a chance

3. PREMIO - Sixth on debut in a very small event and looks a huge outsider and not fancied

4. MACFLY D'YCY - Won very small event on penultimate start and might have the tiniest of each way chances

5. MARAPUAMA - Placed just once in eight outings and will do well to match that effort here

6. TRUE THOUGHTS - Finished fourth in the middle of three runs and could be an each way player

7. OOBY DOUBY - Placed twice in six starts but makes hardly any appeal whatsoever here

8. A CORPS PERDU - Still to place in seven starts and that record should be in tact after this

9. NEVER CRY - Yet to hit the frame in half a dozen starts and looks a huge outsider

10. OLYMPIC FLAME - Has some form in four runs despite being never in the frame and could take a hand here for sure

11. DUTRIEU - Unplaced in both her outings but has shown a glimpse of ability all the same

12. ARIN - Finished third on debut in December and run well enough since to be a big player here

13. BLOSSOM SKY - Unplaced in all her four starts and looks another likely no show here too

14. NETEB - Very little ability in her three unplaced efforts and similar story here one imagines

15. BLACK DEMON - One placed effort in five runs and there will be a lot more required here today

16. DEATH VALLEY - Unplaced in both her two outings and will need to do so much better in fairness

Summary

There will hardly be too many contests that are as poor as this that have been run at this lovely venue but something has to prove victorious so it may be time for (12) ARIN to step up to the plate. Her five runs read well in the context of this race and she can prevail from (10) OLYMPIC FLAME who looks the next most likely. (2) LARME D'AMOUR and (6) TRUE THOUGHTS might struggle into the frame alongside (11) DUTRIEU.

Selections

(12) ARIN - (10) OLYMPIC FLAME - (2) LARME D'AMOUR - (6) TRUE THOUGHTS - (11) DUTRIEU

Race 7 1. TENZING - Finished fourth on debut at Nantes showing some promise so might do a bit better

2. DAMERON - Runner up on debut at Deauville last season but has not flown that well since

3. GOT AWAN - One place from five runs and each way hope in poor enough event here today

4. REGGAE TRAOU LAND - Placed in half of his eight starts including a small event last time out

5. WHISKY MOUILLE - Just the two runs and improved last time to be just behind Regae Traou Land last time

6. CLOUD EIGHT - Placed in five of eight starts in Britain and could be well up to this standard

7. CABOTIN - Runner up in four of his half dozen starts and sets a clear standard today

8. TAMBOTI - Unplaced in all three outings and has a huge task on to try and take this

9. CONSET BAY - Hit the frame once from four and will need to brush up ideas pretty fast

10. EMMA PRINCESS - Showed promise on both her outings and could be one for a place at a big price

11. EN DANSANT - Very limited in five outings and makes little or no appeal here either

12. DILIYA - Unplaced on only career start to date and most definitely best watched here

13. GLORY DAYS - A newcomer by French Fifteen and appeals as one for handicaps further down the line

14. EXPECTING TO FLY - A newcomer by Iffraaj and whose dam was a smart Group performer. Could be anything

15. LA MEDICIS - Mother was a smart Group winner and this filly is a half sister to three winners from just three foals

Summary This is all set to go to the likely way odds on favourite in the shape of (7) CABOTIN who sets a clear form standard for the powerful team of Fabre and Boudot. It will be a huge surprise if the Kendargent colt is beaten. Two

newcomers who are very well bred look the most likely to follow home the selection and they are (14) EXPECTING TO FLY and (15) LA MEDICIS with (3) GOT AWAN next best.

Selections

(7) CABOTIN - (14) EXPECTING TO FLY - (15) LA MEDIC IS - (3) GOT AWAN

Race 8 1. COMEDIA ERIA - Thrice a winner from thirty and can be regarded for a place at any rate

2. COSTAL SAGA - Last win of four came here last August. Fell over hurdles on latest try and best watched now

3. MANDOLIN WIND - Gained second career win at Lyon-Parilly last month from just ten goes. Respected

4. GREYWAY - Won two in a row at Chantilly late last year but hit and miss since. Handicapper has given a chance

5. MIA WALLACE - Made it win number two from ten here last time out so in fine form for this attempt

6. DANDY FLAME - Won two in a row in Britain last summer and has had just the two runs in this country

7. RISTRETTO - Five time scorer from fifty six and on a long losing sequence at this stage

8. ANOTHER BEAT - Was off for a long time before a successful comeback at Durtal. Finished behind Dandy Flame next time

9. NEW TERMS - Won at Fairyhouse in Ireland last season but disappointing on both starts here in this country

10. POST VAR - Triple winner from a dozen runs. Very consistent but absent since last June

11. OBEDIENT - Won on debut back in 2016. Just the four runs since amidst huge absences but still fancied

Summary A sporting chance is taken here on the long time absent (10) POST VAR who has been plagued with some sort of trouble or another and only got to the track twice early last season. However there is ability there and if fit enough will trouble the likes of another similar type in (11) OBEDIENT who must be played by backers. (3) MANDOLIN WIND and (1) COMEDIA ERIA are the others to concentrate on.

Selections

(10) POST VAR - (11) OBEDIENT - (3) MANDOLIN WIND - (1) COMEDIA ERIA

Race 9 1. MATHONVILLE - A dual winner from thirty one and a solid third here last time out. Can be involved

2. APPIANO - Half a dozen wins from fifty five and did it nicely at Saint-Brieuc last time. Obvious contender

3. SNAP CALL - Has been in great form this season having missed all of 2017. Must be in the shake up

4. BE FREE - Just the one victory from twenty one and others look much better qualified for honours

5. PERMSKAYA - Dual winner from twenty six and a back to form second last time at Saint-Brieuc

6. WINNING PURSUIT - Unplaced in all five runs but is at least somewhat unexposed coming here

7. GYNTKA - Seven time winner from fifty one and placed in three of last four claimers

8. AVEC LAURA - Still a maiden after thirty two runs but was runner up last time out so that was encouraging

9. ATTENTION BAILEYS - Eight wins in seventy two efforts and could be feasibly handicapped here

10. STARDATE - One win from sixteen and has finished third in last two efforts which bodes well

11. ARMYR - Half a dozen wins from thirty three runs and basically an outsider for this

12. GASALTO - One success from twenty nine. Mark continues to fall. Behind two of these last time at Saint-Brieuc

13. ETTA - A dual winner from thirty four starts but can be a bit hit and miss to be fair

14. FRIPONE - One success from thirty three which came three goes back but gone into reverse again since

15. TROIS ROSES - Made it win n number two from sixteen at Tours last time out and nothing wrong with that

16. LA RACEUSE - Three time scorer from thirty one but continues to default and not considered here

Summary

A difficult finale for punters to try and solve. It can go to any or most of the contestants bar a few. In such cases the topweight is often the safest option. Therefore, the joint top on ratings, (1) MATHONVILLE, is the call. She has performed well in her last two outing to suggest her turn is near. (3) SNAP CALL has had a terrific start to this campaign and can keep it going today. (5) PERMSKAYA must be given hope along with both (2) APPIANO and (10) STARDATE.

Selections

(1) MATHONVILLE - (3) SNAP CALL - (5) PERMSKAYA - ( 2) APPIANO - (10) STARDATE

VICHY - 23rd May

Trainer of the day : Stéphane Meunier (208, 207)

Driver of the day : Jean-Michel Bazire (109, 403, 503, 605, 810)

Horse of the day : Apollo de Neulliac (711)

Dark Horse : Dialo des Kèches (406)

Race 1 1. CAPRAIO - Unreliable but is clearly capable of better than last run. Could cause an upset

2. STARO ITALY - Unbeaten this year and is barefoot and ready for this race. Must be considered

3. ECUME DE REVILLE - just needed last run and was not disgraced when fourth last time. More needed to win this race

4. ARENGA DE NERET - Has battled a bit this year but is capable of earning on a course that suits

5. DULCINEE VRIE - has been disappointing this year. capable of better but needs to now show it

6. BOTTICINO - Fit and in good form but this does look a tougher task. Could pop up in the places

7. CROSS DAIRPET - Fit and doing well this year. Could possible play a minor role once again

8. BLEU CIEL - Capable of better than last run. Does have a winning chance in this line-up

9. TESAURO - Fit and in good form recently. Should fight out the finish once again. Go close

10. UNTIL OAKS - Unreliable but did win latest start and needs to confirm that form. Others preferred

11. ULYSSE DU BOUCHET - Has been struggling for some time now and needs major improvement to win this race

12. URIFAN DE COUDDES - Did well in 2016 but struggled in 2017 and is struggling again this year

13. CALIN DE MORGE - A bit disappointing recently but is clearly capable of better and should go close

14. AVRIK DE GUEZ - Improved to win latest start but will need to do more to

beat this field

15. ELITE DU RUEL - Disappointing last three runs and is probably best watched for now. Others preferred

16. VERTIGE DE CHENU - Has really been struggling this year and needs major improvement to win

17. ULTRA DE VINDECY - Much improved when third in latest start but has not won for some time. Might place

Summary Defending champion, and a good 6th at Vincennes recently, (13) CALIN DE MORGE can return to success, even if it must make up the 25m distance this year. Entrusted to JMB, (9) TESAURO has the confidence of his mentor so warrants respect. Last-start winner (2) STARO ITALY is flying high at present and should be competitive from the front row. (8) BLEU CIEL is capable.

Selections

(13) CALIN DE MORGE - (9) TESAURO - (2) STARO ITALY - (8) BLEU CIEL

Race 2 1. BEN DU HOULBET - Unreliable but is always capable of popping up in the places. Has a place chance

2. BRAZILIO BELLO - In pretty good form this year and is not out of it. Could play a minor role

3. BATTAMBANG - A bit disappointing this year but is capable of better and should go close to winning

4. BRENNUS SEVEN - Disappointing this year but is capable of better and could play a minor role

5. ALORS DE BLEMONT - Battling to regain best form but could finish in the money once again. Place chance

6. BIENTOT JENILOU - Won a claimer in latest start. Does need to do a bit more to win this race

7. A TOI JIM - Good recent runs in claimers. More needed to win this but is also not completely out of it

8. BEN DE TORVIC - Unreliable but was a good winner of penultimate start and has a winning chance

9. VERSICOLOR - May have needed both starts this year but needs to do more to win this race

10. AMBIANCE DU LOISIR - Only fair form this year and needs to find a few lengths to win this race

11. BUENO VERDERIE - Not disgraced in last two runs but has not won for some time. Might place

12. BACHERRA DU MOULIN - Unreliable but did well when runner-up at this course last time out. Consider

Summary Stephane Meunier holds the key to the enigmatic (8) BEN DE TORVIC who, if applied, has the means to resume winning ways. (7) A TOI JIM, entrusted to Franck Nivard, and inconsistent (3) BATTAMBANG are capable of staking a claim if reproducing their best form. Last-start winners (2) BRAZILIO BELLO and (6) BIENTOT JENILOU have earning potential too.

Selections

(8) BEN DE TORVIC - (7) A TOI JIM - (3) BATTAMBANG - (2) BRAZILIO

BELLO

Race 3 1. DESIR DE BANOME - In good form and remains barefoot so could be involved in the places once again

2. DENOR VEETA - Did win latest start but this is a lot tougher. Might play a minor role at best

3. DESTIN DE L'OREE - Has ability when in the mood and did well to win latest start. The one to beat

4. DOUGLAS DU PONT - Disappointing last run. Capable of better and could earn some money once again

5. DRILLING GRIFF - Has been struggling for some time to win again and needs to find a few lengths to win this

6. DUC DE LA MORTRIE - has been in good form this year winning twice and deserves respect in this line-up

7. DIORICIMO D'EVA - Clearly unreliable but does win every now and then. Cannot be dismissed away easily

8. DANSEUR DU LUPIN - Fit and is in good form. Likely to fight out the finish once again. Chance

9. DOW JONES - Battling to regain winning form. Was not disgraced when third in latest start

10. D'ARTAGNAN VOLSIN - Has struggled in two starts this year and needs major improvement to win

11. DEMETRIOS D'ELA - Unreliable and is battling to regain winning form. Others are much preferred

12. DESIR DE SENOVILLE - Fair recent form. Needs to do more to win but is quite capable of earning some money

13. DIABLE DE LAVAL - In good form and has done well at this track in the past. Has a winning chance

14. DEFI DE TILLARD - Has really struggled this year and needs major improvement to win this race

Summary (3) DESTIN DE L'OREE was successful at Graignes recently and, again presented without his irons, can follow up here. (8) DANSEUR DU LUPIN is consistent and should fight for the first places, with another honest account expected. Last-start winners (6) DUC DE LA MORTRIE, despite racing shod, and (2) DENOR VEETA warrant respect.

Selections

(3) DESTIN DE L'OREE - (8) DANSEUR DU LUPIN - (6) D UC DE LA MORTRIE - (2) DENOR VEETA

Race 4 1. DANDY DE MELODIE - In good form and is barefoot for this race. Be right there at the finish

2. DUC DE VILLETOT - In good form. Is likely to contest the finish once again and must be considered

3. DARWIN LA MESANGE - In good form this year and did pretty well in 2017. Big chance in this line-up

4. DYASAR - Fair recent form but may need to do a bit more to win this race. Might place

5. DOUGLAS BEACH - Has been really struggling for some time and needs major improvement to win

6. DIALO DES KECHES - Disappointing last run. Won well in penultimate start and must be considered

7. DALENTINO - Unreliable but did win latest start and has a winning chance in this line-up

8. DJODANN - Disappointing last run. Capable of better and could pop up in the places

9. DOSTOIEV - Battling to regain best form and needs to do more to win but could play a minor role

10. DOMINANT ROMANEE - Modest recent form and needs to find a few lengths to win this race. More needed

11. DARIUS DU LOIR - Has struggled in last three starts and is likely to need this come back run

12. DONATO CELINA - A bit disappointing this year so far. Did a lot better in 2017. Watch for improvement

13. DAGUET DU VERNE - Unreliable but is quite capable of finishing in the money once again. Place chance

Summary Excellent in his two attempts this year and entrusted to Jean-Michel Bazire for this event, (3) DARWIN LA MESANGE should feature prominently from the front row. (7) DALENTINO returned to winning ways last time and can count on the help of Franck Nivard. (1) DANDY DE MELODIE has been irreproachable for several weeks and warrants the utmost respect from the ideal starting berth racing barefoot for the first time. (2) DUC DE VILLETOT and (6) DIALO DES KECHES have solid credentials too.

Selections

(3) DARWIN LA MESANGE - (7) DALENTINO - (1) DANDY D E MELODIE - (2)

DUC DE VILLETOT

Race 5 1. ELEVATION - Fair form this year and should be in the final shake-up once again. Place chance

2. EASY TURGOT - Only has fair form this year and needs to find a few lengths to win this race

3. ELISKA BERRY - Very good last two runs and looks the one to beat if reproducing that level of form

4. EPILOBE DE BAILLY - Fit and ready for this but last two runs were a bit disappointing. Might place

5. ESQUIRE - Only eighth in latest start. Capable of better and capable of an upset

6. ELEGANCE EXPRESS - Disappointed last time. Two previous wins were decent and is not out of it

7. ELU DE DOMPIERRE - Unbeaten in five starts this year and must be given the utmost respect

8. EN TOI J'ESPERE - In good form this year. This is a tougher task but could play a minor role

9. EXAUCE NOUS - Always gives of his best and is likely to fight out the finish once again

10. EASY MARCEAUX - Battling to regain winning form and this is a tough task for him. Others preferred

11. EDDY DU LOISIR - Very unreliable and is battling to regain best form. More needed to win

12. EOLE EMESS - Won a nice race at Vincennes in January but has struggled in four starts since

13. EUREKA FAC - Has really struggled in her three starts this year after winning at Vincennes

14. ESPOIR DE BELLOUET - May have needed both runs this year and is capable of improvement. One to consider

15. ETINCELLE DE LAVAL - Holding form well and is capable of playing a minor role once again. Place chance

Summary Pleasant winner during her penultimate outing, (3) ELISKA BERRY found only one better last time. On current form she should contest the outcome. (9) EXAUCE NOUS left a good impression at Argentan recently and can confirm

despite his position in the second line. Both (7) ELU DE DOMPIERRE and (8) EN TOI J'ESPERE arrive in good form so could pose a threat.

Selections

(3) ELISKA BERRY - (9) EXAUCE NOUS - (7) ELU DE DOM PIERRE - (8) EN TOI J'ESPERE

Race 6 1. ECHO DE CHANLECY - has not won for some time but recent form is good and should contest the finish

2. ELEVEN DES PLANS - Has yet to win but has been consistent and could play a minor role. Place chance

3. ELAN DE DOMPIERRE - Fair recent form but will need to do more to win this race. Might place

4. ENZO MESLOIS - Has really struggled this year and does look very unlikely to win this race

5. ELTON MESLOIS - Fair recent form. Likely to do even better in this field and can go close

6. ECLAT DU VERGER - Fair recent form and does look likely to fight out the finish once again

7. ECLAIR D'HERVY - Holding form well. Is clearly not out of and must be considered in this field

8. EARLY MORNING - Disappointing last three runs but has a winning chance in this line-up. Respect

9. EL AMOR DE KA - Disappointing last run. Capable of better and could finish in the money once again

10. ELIXIR DU GILET - Has not won for over a year but recent form is good and does have a place chance

Summary (5) ELTON MESLOIS held his own in stronger company at Caen last time and, given to Jean-Michel Bazire on this occasion, should fight for victory. Progressive (6) ECLAT DU VERGER left a good impression at La Capelle recently and will be a factor if confirming. (1) ECHO DE CHANLECY was runner-up in his last two starts and can again feature prominently from the ace.

Selections

(5) ELTON MESLOIS - (6) ECLAT DU VERGER - (1) ECHO DE CHANLECY - (8) EARLY MORNING

Race 7 1. CHARMEUR DE BREVOL - Has done pretty well in this discipline and could fight out the finish once again

2. VAGUE MIKA - Only fair form recently in Mounted races and needs to improve to win. Others preferred

3. VIKING DU SARTHON - Only modest recent form recently but could improve back in a Mounted race

4. BRISE DU BUIS - Fair recent form . More needed to win but could play a minor role once again

5. VIKING WINNER - Disappointing last two starts. Capable of better and could improve trying a Mounted race

6. COSTA JULRY - Disappointing last three runs but will do better back in a Mounted race. Has a winning chance

7. ALL RIGHT MARCEAUX - Has been struggling recently but could improve in this discipline. Could improve

8. ACTIUM JENILOU - Has improved in latest start but will need to do more to win this race

9. VALSE MANISTE - Has struggled all year and needs major improvement to win this race. Others preferred

10. BLEU DE BULGARIE - Well beaten in both starts this year but is better in this discipline and does have a chance

11. APOLLO DE NEULLIAC - has been in very good form in this discipline this year and is the one to beat

12. BELLE KATIE - Battling to regain best form and needs to find a few lengths to win. More needed

13. VEINARD DE FARCHAT - Has struggled in three starts this year and is probably best watched for now

14. ANANDA - In good form but has not been as good in Mounted race. Has a place chance

Summary Winner of his last three starts under the saddle, (11) APOLLO DE NEULLIAC discovers a good commitment. Barefoot for the occasion, he is preferred despite a 25m handicap. (6) COSTA JULRY has run well since resuming and should keep the selection honest. Last-start winner (14) ANANDA has claims from the second row. (10) BLEU DE BULGARIE and (1) CHARMEUR DE BREVOL are

better than their recent form suggests and if at best could get a look in.

Selections

(11) APOLLO DE NEULLIAC - (6) COSTA JULRY - (14) AN ANDA - (10) BLEU DE BULGARIE

Race 8 1. FARANDOLA BELLA - First run for a Tornado Bello filly out of Rira. Likely to need the experience

2. FRAMBOISE DU BOIS - Well beaten on debut. Likely to improve but others are much preferred to win

3. FLEMINGTON - Has struggled in last three starts but is capable of better and could finish in the money

4. FABIO DU LOISIR - Disappointing last run. Capable of better and is clearly not out of it

5. FIGLIO MERITE - Unreliable but was not disgraced when runner-up in latest start. Has a place chance

6. FOLLE DE TOI - Holding form well and is fit and ready for this race. Could play a minor role

7. FORTUNA - Holding form well and could contest the finish once again. Has a chance

8. FLORINE DE VIETTE - Good last two runs. More needed to win but could finish in the money. Place chance

9. FILOU GAUDINIERE - Is improving and won well last time out. Could be the one to beat in this race

10. FETICHE D'URZY - Unreliable but has the ability to run very well in a field like this. Respect

11. FAUBOURG DU PERCHE - Just needed last run. Fitter now and could fight out the finish of this race

Summary An open race and several potential winners. (9) FILOU GAUDINIERE was not winning out of turn last time and shpould be competitive if making natural improvement. (10) FETICHE D'URZY, entrusted to JMB, is better than a disappointing last run suggests and could make amends. (11) FAUBOURG DU PERCHE can improve o n his comeback run to stake a claim. (5) FIGLIO MERITE and (6) FOLLE DE TOI arrive in good form and have earning potential too.

Selections

(9) FILOU GAUDINIERE - (10) FETICHE D'URZY - (11) FAUBOURG DU PERCHE - (5) FIGLIO MERITE