14-1 upset in Prix de la Cote d’Azur

Gino Viva (9g Sun Ceravin-Kuza Viva-Uzo Charmeur) controlled the front with Gabrielle Gelormini driving and the 14/1 odds trotteur captured the Prix de la Coted’Azur (Gr. III International, purse 130,000€, 2925 meters distance handicap, 16 starters ages 5-11) this day at Cagnes sur Mer.

Timed in 1.14.8kr the winner recorded his 11th career victory in 67 starts for 303,220€ earned. Dominik Locqueneux trains the Anna Karlsson owned veteran performer.

Illusion Jipad (7f Boccador de Simm-Toutoune Jipad) was second for Eric Raffin at 7/1 odds. Pascal Lelievre trains this one for owner Jean Philippe Izzo. Third to the line was the 25 meter handicapped and 69/1 odds El Greco Bello (11g Meaulnes du Corta-Olympe d’Or-Defi D’Aunou) with trainer Pierrick le Moel aboard for Ecurie MZ. The 1.7/1 odds favorite King Cole (8g Maharjah) was fourth for Christophe Marten, handicapped 25 meters,  followed by 42/1 Honky Tonk Blues, 4.8/1 Kyrielle and  14/1 Coco BFC.

For the race replay, click here.

On the weekend ahead will be the sixth qualifying race leading to the Prix d’Amerique. That field is shown below, led by former Amerique winner Hooker Berry that being in January 2023 timed in 1.11.7kr.

Trotteur Francais, Cagnes sur Mer, Paris-Vincennes files/photos

by Thomas H. Hicks, for Harnesslink