A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since the first of Franck Nivard’s sixteen participations in the Prix de Bretagne, almost two decades ago (Birbodelaquercia, 8e in 2005). The native of Avranches won the 2007, 2011 and 2016 editions, respectively at the helm of Kool du Caux, Ready Cash et Anna Mix. He has also, and above all, built up a record as long as his arm in the groups (391 victories in France, all disciplines combined). Less well armed than at one time, he nevertheless intends to do well at the highest level this winter, thanks to two horses as a priority. “Emeraude de Bais will have ambitions in the great “old” events and I also have good hopes with Jazzman Debailleul, which could be seen again in the GNT Final, on 1is December. He will benefit from a tailor-made commitment in mind.”
For the moment, Franck Nivard is focusing on the very first Sunday of the meeting, and in particular on the Prix de Bretagne. “It’s a pleasure to own a mare like Emeraude de Bais and to compete in such events with his sulky. She won really well in October in Agen, in the Grand Prix du Sud-Ouest. She remained in good shape, being, at 10 years old, still as competitive as last winter in any case. It adapts to all distances, as long as it can move hidden. When reading the paper, no big favorite stands out; everyone will have the knife between their teeth! My mare has the advantage of being easy to handle and starts well, in principle. I see him as having a good chance, if everything goes as desired. She has every right to qualify for the Prix d’Amérique.”
His other starters of the day
The man who has been nicknamed “Francky the cold hand” for many years will drive five additional times during this gala meeting, which includes ten races. “I know well Walnut Gethi (206), which will appear in shape. Now he will have to face younger opponents and foreigners… We will try to scrounge up a small check. Light My Fire (503) has just strolled through two small provincial lots; They’re not the same this time! This summer, he had no margin against the best and we will be able to judge on Sunday whether he has reached a milestone or not. If he finished third or fourth, that would be great. I will find Khal’s Fella (711), a good colt not so bad parked with his n°11 at the autostart, in the wake of Géricault. The 5 year olds are undoubtedly more hardened than him, but he can claim a good place. Madrik icon (808) will have the handicap of rushing outside. There is also good opposition but speed is his thing. She should still participate in the finish. Kimmeridgienne (915) has just been dominated on shorter; it was just going too fast for her. Even though engagement is good, there are still a few clients. We do not have a first chance but will aim for a place.”
