With jumping’s big day at Cagnes sur Mer just a fortnight away, Sunday’s meeting is a fine indication of what is to come. With two Class 1 races and a Listed programmed, a number of track specialists will be in action ahead of the showpiece raceday on January 7 which will feature the most coveted events on the Riviera winter calendar.

Highlight of this weekend’s action is the Prix du Comté de Nice, a 4200m chase for 4 year-olds and up. Not only is it a prep race for the the valuable G.3 Grand Prix de la Ville de Nice in two weeks’ time but, worth €71,000 and carrying black-type status, it is an important race in its own right. Despite a relatively small nine runners field, there is no shortage of quality.

Highest-rated in the field, Marvel De Cerisy made a promising debut here earlier in the month, trouncing titleholder Garkapstar, and Oktente, and the Irish import will be seeking to confirm. Cagnes-loving Jigstar Pam made a fine comeback over hurdles and looks a player. Saigon, Sternkranz and Princess Léa are all in with a shout. 

The Prix Cyborg is a prep for next month’s Listed Prix Massena, and five of the six runners have already won this meeting. Hat-trick-seeking Brooks is a clear choice, but will be pitted against Prestige D’Olva and Karthage, both impressing on their respective hurdling debuts. Goldroschen has promise but races against the colts this time.

For those willing to take on their elders in the ‘Ville de Nice’, the Prix Loic Audon 4 year-old chase is an ideal springboard. Kamyador and Nyiri go head-to-head again, the former winning in style last time. A Nous Tous won last time over fences, Jouvancelle can be forgiven her recent tumble, and the supplemented Romarius is not to be underestimated.