A new incentive programme for the G2 Prix du Gros-Chene was launched by France Galop this spring.
In danger of being downgraded from Group 2 to Group 3 status next year, the race now has a quintet of lead-up sprint-race qualifiers where the winner will be automatically entered in the June 2 1000-metre sprint and the €1,200 entry fee will be waived. Two of the five qualifying races have already taken place, the Prix Cor de Chasse at Deauville on Apr. 9, won by Vicious Harry (Fr) (Harry Angel {Ire}), and the G3 Prix Sigy at Chantilly, which was claimed by Sajir (Ire) (Make Believe {GB}) on Apr. 15. The remaining qualifiers for the event are as follows:
- Prix Servanne over 1200 metres at Chantilly on May 2
- Prix de Saint-Georges over 1000 metres at ParisLongchamp on May 12
- G3 Prix Texanita going 1200 metres at Chantilly on May 17
In Italy, the €640,200 G2 Derby Italiano over 2200 metres will be held on Sunday, May 19. Open to colts and fillies, the Capannelle showpiece is one of the most lucrative Group 2 races in Europe. A generous travel incentive is being offered for prospective entrants, with entries closing on Monday, Apr. 29 at 10:30 a.m. local time. The entry fee is €1,455. Supplemental entries will be accepted until 10:30 a.m. on May 16 for a cost of €48,200. Declarations, at a fee of €2,910, are due by 8:30 a.m. on May 17.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
