Sole mobile start among the ‘4B’ prep races, Sunday’s 2100m, Gr.2 Prix de Bourgogne has attracted a full field of 18. Fifth and penultimate qualifier for the Prix d’Amérique, tension will be mounting in a number of camps ahead of the late-January spectacle.

There is considerable quality to be found on the front row. Winner of the last edition, Délia Du Pommereux is perfectly-positioned behind the car and will be barefoot, as will Elitlopp victor, Hohneck, who has been handed the inside line. Starting upsides is the fast Cokstile who won the race two years ago, followed by the exemplary Ampia Mede SM who trotted third 12 months ago. The Eurotrotting Go On Boy rounded off his season in fine fashion and returns to conditions he appreciates with a lot to offer. Breaking from 6 is the swift Swedish attraction, Hail Mary, who will be dangerous if he takes to the new profile. Barefoot for his first start since the summer, Moni Viking excels at Vincennes. Hooker Berry has already qualified and races shod, while last year’s 2nd, and subsequent Prix de Cornulier winner, Flamme Du Goutier, is forced to break wide.

On the second line, fine campaigner, Hokkaido Jiel appreciates 2100m and gets the inside draw, while Horsy Dream, who was forced to miss the Bourbonnais through some bad luck, will be out to make amends for his Prix de Bretagne fault. Recent Bourbonnais third, Gu D’Héripré, is clearly back on track but has not been particularly lucky with the draw. Bretagne winner, Hussard De Landret is fitted with pads this time and will not be over-extended. The Abrivard cousins, Matthieu and Alexandre, will respectively be driving Emeraude De Bais and monté star, Hanna Des Molles.