French mare wins World Cup

The final of the World Cup Trot was raced for the first time in Russia, where the very modern Kazan track was the host. The winner was the French-sired Lady d’Auvrecy.

“It was a great experience to be here,” said Swedish trainer-driver Jorgen Westholm. “The arena and the arrangements were very good and the host as well the owner of the mile track (a Russian vodka producer) was very generous and showed great hospitality.”

The race got underway with a bad start with the 11 starters coming to the gate one by one. When the car pulled away Malabar Circle Ås (Malabar Man) was the early leader, followed by Isn´t It Pacha and Super Light (by Super Arnie). The two favorites Mara Bourbon and Kazire de Guez challenged and took over, but were rapidly passed by L’Amiral Mauzun, a son of the French sire Bon Conseil.

L’Amiral Mauzun cut part of the 2,400 meters (1 1/2 miles) with a big lead. The first mile was passed in 1:57. It looked like L’Amiral Mauzun would manage to escape as both Mara Bourbon and Kazire de Guez made breaks in last turn entering the homestretch (probably suffering from the hard track).

But the high speed in front took its tool and the "Belle Blonde," Lady d’Auvrecy, who had waited in the back, finished strongly as usual and reached the leader in time. Isn’t It Pacha, who had enjoyed a trip at the rail, also finished well to be second ahead of L’Amiral Mauzun and Super Light.

The winner is trained by Franck Harel and was driven by Sebastian Baude. The winner earned almost $200,000. The race was broadcast via satellite by most trotting TV channels in Europe.

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