After receiving the first stage of the Galop two weeks ago, the Hippodrome of the Côte d’Azur is the venue this Sunday for the Grand Prix de Vitesse. A delight for racing enthusiasts as well as for the younger crowd with activities and shows on the program, including “Action and Emotion” by Lorenzo.
It is undeniable, the Hippodrome of the Côte d’Azur is one of the most important racing venues in France. After hosting the first stage of the Galop two weeks ago with activities unfortunately canceled due to terrible weather, the venue is preparing for the Grand Prix de Vitesse for the pleasure of bettors and curious spectators with its many shows.
The GCV is a legendary race that has seen the triumph of nationally and internationally renowned horses. Ourasi, Moni Maker, Varenne, Meaulnes du Corta, to name a few. On the jockey side, names like Jean-Michel Bazire, Pierre Levesque, Jean-René Gougeon, or Jos Verbeck have been able to add another line to their record. The event is part of the international speed circuit. Records have been repeatedly broken at the Hippodrome of the Côte d’Azur. The European speed record is still held in Cagnes-sur-Mer by Varenne in 1’09″6 in 2002. The event is the second race of the circuit, just behind the Prix de France in Vincennes. This year again, €200,000 in prizes are allocated by the Société d’Encouragement du Cheval Français. The most anticipated race, the 6th, the Grand Prix Nice-Matin (1).
The highlight of the show is sure to be Lorenzo’s performance. With his 16 horses, the international star will offer a breathtaking show combining vaulting, dressage, and acrobatics. Eight gray mares led without bridle, in total freedom. Poetry and emotion add to the feat. Lorenzo is a reference in the field. After a first performance at the age of 8, he has continued to rise. Known internationally, he has presented his show to Queen Elizabeth II, the Sultan of Malaysia, or King Mohammed VI. The show will be presented in 4 acts between the races. You will not be disappointed by what you will see.
But that’s not all. Children can also enjoy activities on the sidelines of the GCV. Ponies, a carousel, bike sulkies, and an inflatable structure will all be available to meet the expectations of the little ones. One last activity should also please both young and old, the Cagnoises Rosalias. An ecological and pleasant transport to take you from the entrance of the Hippodrome to the ticket booths.
For the occasion, the book by Étienne de Montpezat “Ourasi, the true novel” will be presented and offered to you. A magnificent biography of one of the most famous horses in the racing world, who passed away last January 12 and left an indelible mark on the memory of racing enthusiasts. A four-time winner of the Prix d’Amérique (86, 87, 88, 90), no less, and the Grand Prix de Vitesse of the Côte d’Azur four years in a row, from 1986 to 1989. You can see his portrait proudly displayed at the Hippodrome.
So, meet us starting at 12 p.m. The festivities will begin at 1:30 p.m., fifteen minutes before the start of the races.
