Four group I winners will be at the start of the Prix du Calvados (Ideal Oak, Edition Géma, Ina you Rib et Rib Swallow). Without offending the most successful of the lot, who will be contenders for the Prix de Cornulier in two weeks, Gazelle de Val will be the attraction of this group II. The resident of Éric Lambertz is THE revelation of recent months on the rise. Since her mentor put the saddle on her back (May 2024), the uterine sister ofVal Impala is simply undefeated in six outings. All while leaving a nice impression of ease each time. In a few hours, Gazelle de Val will compete, for the first time, with the big names in the field. Will she reach a new milestone? If the moment of truth is imminent, she seems able to push her limits and play in the big leagues. If his winnings could prove sufficient to aim for participation in the “Cornulier”, Gazelle de Val would definitely secure its place by finishing in the top three in this final qualifying and preparatory event for the beauty.
As good as Gold Voice?
Recently, Mathieu Mottier's partner “flew away” in the Prix de Castillonnés (2.175 m – GP) in the super time of 1'10''4 (his record), even if it should be noted that the wind was favorable. In the 2024 edition of this event, Gold Voice finished second for his debut in the specialty. And a few weeks later, the daughter of I de Bellouet was sacred in this “Calvados” (facing the Half, Rib Swallow et Ideal Oak) before taking part in the “Cornulier”. A lack of experience in riding, and at the highest level, is not a barrier to looking straight into the eyes of the best. All hopes are therefore allowed for Gazelle de Val.
While waiting for D Day…
The silveriest competitor of the lot, Ideal of Oak, triple classic winner, is undefeated on the climb since the start of the meeting (Prix Paul Buquel and Jules Lemonnier) and looks like the probable favorite of the “Cornulier”. If she is already in orbit for the summit of mounted trotters, she will not be put into competition mode, her entourage preferring to preserve certain assets for the big objective. “Everything is fine, but she will only be stuck on her front feet instead of being unshod on all four feet.”, informs Julien Le Mer to our journalist Gilles Pomade. She has not evolved since the summer she was 3 years old in this configuration. That said, she was subsequently crowned in the Prix de Vincennes with her horses at the same age. “So, I only see her finishing fourth and fifth.” And why not better? On a point, this classy mare could reach the podium.
Confirmation expected
Runner-up of the aforementioned for his debut under the saddle in the Prix Jules Lemonnier, Untouchable made a very good impression. The resident of Antoine Marion will set off with ambitions and could, too, open the doors of “Cornulier”. Not having displayed its value in the reference event, Edition Géma should not be condemned. “I had slowed down a bit at workexplains Marc Sassier to Christophe Meyer. On the other hand, the race was decided in a sprint, which did not advantage it.ande. She is coming back very well without being 100% yet. The goal is to get to the top for the big day. She should, despite everything, put in a great performance.” His training companion, and neophyte under the saddle, Harley Géma could reveal itself on its driving class. “I'm going to judge it on the ride. If she is not able to finish in the top three, she will not go to the “Cornulier”. The champion Ina you Ribwhich is growing in power, can be talked about again, even when shod. As for the President, Rib Swallowshe will be better on this outfit course. Halfbetter than ever, will defend its chances dearly, in the same way as Grace of the Digeon. “I think she has a good chanceindicates Charles Dreux. We hope to be in the top three or four.” The latter also delegates Jasmine de Vau, recent third place in the Bilibili Prize. “We are waiting for confirmation. She would make us happy if she could qualify for the main race.” As we can see, there is no shortage of possibilities and tickets are expensive for those with less money.
