International field in the Prix d'Avranches
The Prix d'Avranches, a 2,100m race starting behind the gate, has attracted an international field. The race takes place on November 5 at 13:55.
Half of the runners are trained by foreign trainers, with 5 of the 9 foreign-trained horses coming from Sweden. The race is open to 6-10-year-olds and offers €26,550 to the winner.
Sweden
Most notably, Ready Star makes his French debut with Mats Djuse in the sulky. Ready Star has really made an impression in 2026 and cemented himself as one of the best trotters in Sweden. Starting from post 9 from behind the gate, both he and Mats Djuse will get a perfect impression of French racing.
Trainer Jörgen Westholm has already announced that he wants Mats Djuse to drive Dream Mine during the winter season, who is aiming for the Prix d’Amérique. Getting associated with the differences in racing early is a sensible move and shows the driver's intentions. Djuse has only driven in France once before, in the 2023 Prix de France with Imhatra Am.
Competivo hasn’t done a lot wrong in France. Out of 8 races, he’s finished in the top 2 in 6 of them. We’ll see him over the shorter distance for the first time at Vincennes. He won’t shy away from a challenge. He has been preparing with two races in Sweden, but trainer Daniel Wäjersten told Paris-Turf he’s at 90%:
"After a comeback race with shoes on, he ran against the best at Gävle last month. The race wasn't easy and coming back was too hard. That race did him good. He's been at Grosbois for a few days now. He may not be at his peak yet, but he's at 90%. He shouldn't be bothered by the 2,100 meters. So, he can aim for a place as soon as he returns to Paris."
Humanity Pellini returned to racing on October 16 after a 7-month break. He returned over the sprint distance but didn't produce a result. Although he has proven himself at Vincennes over 2,100m (with a 1’09’’7 and 1’10’’0 a year ago), he should be considered a challenger in what counts as a comeback race.
Mateo di Quattro has switched trainers. Having raced for Johan Untersteiner, he has moved to Björn Goop for at least the winter season, with Goop also driving him in this particular race. Mateo di Quattro raced in Sweden in September and October and has prepared well. Post 3 will give him racing opportunities, but it still looks like a top-six finish is the highest achievable here.
Kaxig In has raced in France before, without a victory yet. The horse has been racing throughout the year, but trainer David Persson explains that he’s in shape:
"He had a good winter last year, placing in several races. His last outing in early October was very good. Physically, he seems to be in very good shape. I am fully satisfied with his training. Starting from the second row, things will have to go well. Under these conditions, a victory seems difficult to imagine, but he is capable of placing."
The Netherlands
Zoom Diamant has needed some time in 2026 to get back to his best, but his form seems to be getting better and better. Incredibly capable and probably best over the shorter distance, he remains an interesting challenger despite starting from behind. Without mistakes, he can be involved.
Dutch trainer Danny Brouwer will have two forces in the race. He believes both Kira Bo Face and Niagara River can grab a minor placing. Although both start from the second line behind the gate, they can play a role with a decent trip. Especially Niagara River is capable of a late kick.
Italy
Trained by Italian-based trainer Erik Bondo, Every Time Winner has done well in France and is adapted to French racing. Although he struggles to find a victory, he’s reliable, fast and consistent. From post 5, he’s one for the tickets.
France
Joker des Chaliers profits from a great draw. From post 4, the fast horse has every chance to compete for the podium. He has been prepared well.
Kotkie will start from post 1, allowing her to look for an economical trip on the inside. Although she prefers flat tracks, she’s visibly capable of holding her position.
Knockonwood is difficult to read, as he’s been very inconsistent throughout his career, but has shown his best side in his previous two races.
Comments