Kalif Landia Dominates Prix Jag de Bellouet, Securing Back-to-Back Classic Wins
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Kalif Landia, the four-year-old champion, has onc again proven his prowess, taking home the coveted Prix Jag de Bellouet trophy on December 15th, 2024. This victory mirrors his stunning performance at the Prix de Vincennes almost exactly one year prior, marking a remarkable achievement for both the horse and his young trainer, alexis Grimault.
grimault, visibly emotional, shared his reaction with Christophe Meyer: “it’s astounding. Last year,I cried my eyes out and had difficulty expressing myself. But this year, things are a little better (laughs).” This win was especially sweet, as Kalif Landia hadn’t crossed the finish line first in a race as his previous Prix de Vincennes victory.
Grimault shed light on the horse’s recent struggles: “He had some pain that I noticed recently, which may explain the reason. He’d probably had it for a while. He was mainly treated for his back. At home, he showed us that he was better. And we saw it today. This morning,I was hopeful that he wouldn’t come out of the three. To win, it’s different because there was opposition. But we know that in this generation, it’s not always the same person who wins.”
Jockey Benjamin Rochard, equally ecstatic, added: “It’s not easy to have a horse to pin a classic every year. There, we have the chance that it will happen again.” This win marked Rochard’s fifth group 1 victory.
Rochard described the race strategy: “I was lucky that a competitor covered us (Kaviarissima). He was able to save a little on the climb.So he was able to finish better. It’s true that he was a little energetic. To be very good, it must be like this to have the necesary enthusiasm.Halfway through the straight, I saw that no one was coming back and that it smelled good. I fully savored the moment because these are difficult races to win.” His exhilaration was evident as he tossed his whip into the air upon crossing the finish line.
Alexis Grimault looks back on the success of his resident Kalif Landia🥇 pic.twitter.com/6QQr9HgjjH
— ParisTurf (@Paris_Turf) December 15, 2024
Cornulier Participation Uncertain
Kalif Landia’s victory mirrors the success of ideal Oak, who also achieved a double win in 2021 and 2022.kalif Landia’s time of 1:12.3 equaled the event record set by Joumba de Guez in 2023, propelling him to third place among the fastest four-year-old trotters. While this win qualifies him for the Cornulier, Grimault expressed reservations: “Normally he should not participate. The time is very good but when I see the “J” time today (Jezabelle Bie 1:11.7), I don’t want to hurt him against more hardened and faster horses.”
The race also highlighted the competitive nature of this generation of racers. Kalif Landia now leads in the number of classic wins, tied with Kyt Kat. Unfortunately, Kyt Kat experienced a setback at the start, with trainer Thomas Levesque noting, “He is ‘gone wrong’. Usually, we manage to put it back but this was not possible.”
Upset at the I de Bellouet Prize: Kaviarissima Shines Despite Inquiry
the I de Bellouet Prize, historically dominated by female racers like Joumba de Guez and Ideal Oak, saw a surprising turn of events this year. While a filly, Kapaula de l’Epine, secured a strong second-place finish, the race ultimately belonged to a different contender.
Trainer Jérémy Van Eeckaute achieved his best-ever placing in a classic race with Kapaula de l’Epine’s performance. “I am very happy,” confided Adrien Lamy, the jockey. ”She finished moving forward, even if she bothered me a little in the final turn where I couldn’t get the winner.”
Making a significant impact in her debut in this prestigious event, Kaviarissima delivered a stunning performance, earning a third-place finish despite facing a post-race investigation. Mathieu Mottier’s mount put on a captivating display, outpacing notable competitors Kelly de Banville and Katinka Aimef.
Kaviarissima’s Extraordinary Debut
The investigation into Kaviarissima’s performance did not diminish the excitement surrounding her impressive run. Her strong showing highlights the rising talent in the field and promises an exciting future for this newcomer.
The I de Bellouet Prize continues to showcase the thrilling competition and unexpected turns that make horse racing such a captivating sport. This year’s race will be remembered for its surprises and the remarkable performance of several young contenders.
The results underscore the unpredictable nature of horse racing and the dedication of both trainers and jockeys in striving for victory in these high-stakes competitions. The future of these young horses is radiant,promising even more exciting races to come.
Kalif Landia’s Dominance: A Suitably Triumphant Return to the Prix Jag de Bellouet
Continuing his reign as a true force in harness racing, Kalif Landia secured another impressive victory at the prestigious Prix Jag de Bellouet on December 15th, 2024, marking his second consecutive victory in the event. This monumental win, mirroring his 2023 Prix de Vincennes triumph, solidified Kalif Landia’s status as a champion and elicited celebrations from his trainer, Alexis Grimault, and jockey Benjamin Rochard.
A Year of Triumph and tribulation
senior Editor:
Joining us today is Étienne Dubois, a leading expert in harness racing and commentator for renowned french equestrian magazine “Cheval Magazine.” Étienne, congratulations to Kalif Landia and his team on this phenomenal win. Could you talk about the importance of this victory for Kalif Landia and his trainer, Alexis Grimault?
Étienne Dubois:
This victory is truly remarkable. Kalif Landia’s dominance in this race showcases his exceptional talent and resilience. Winning the Prix Jag de Bellouet two years in a row is a rare feat, demonstrating his consistency and unwavering competitive spirit.
For Grimault, this win is a testament to his skill as a trainer. He navigated a challenging year, wiht Kalif Landia facing some health issues, but he brought the horse back to peak performance. This victory is a significant moment in Grimault’s already impressive career.
Fighting Back from adversity
Senior Editor:
We understand Kalif Landia faced some challenges leading up to this race. Can you elaborate on those challenges and how they might have impacted his performance?
Étienne Dubois:
Yes, Kalif Landia suffered from some back pain earlier this year. This likely affected his performance in other races, preventing him from securing a first-place finish. Though,
Grimault diligently addressed the issue, and as he mentioned, Kalif Landia showed signs of enhancement at home. This victory proves that the diligent care and strategic training paid off, allowing him to overcome those challenges and reclaim his champion status.
A Spectacular Performance
Senior Editor:
Benjamin Rochard, kalif Landia’s jockey, delivered a masterful performance, navigating the race with precision. What were the key factors in their prosperous collaboration?
Étienne Dubois:
Rochard’s riding skill was instrumental in Kalif Landia’s win. He perhaps benefited from the strategy employed by another horse, Kaviarissima, which allowed Kalif Landia to conserve energy early on. Rochard then expertly timed his move, guiding Kalif Landia to the front and maintaining his led throughout the final stretch. their partnership, built on trust and understanding, shone through in this race.
Looking Ahead: The Cornulier Challenge
Senior Editor:
With this stunning victory, all eyes are on Kalif Landia. Looking towards the future, what are your thoughts on his prospects for the upcoming Prix du Cornulier, a race renowned for its demanding course?
Étienne Dubois:
The Prix du Cornulier will present a new challenge for Kalif Landia. Its demanding track necessitates exceptional stamina and tactical acumen, and given his earlier health issues,
it remains to be seen if he will be able to participate. Despite the uncertainty, his recent performance at the Prix Jag de Bellouet points towards his incredible potential. if he can maintain his current form and overcome any remaining health concerns, he will undoubtedly be a contender for the Prix du Cornulier.
Senior Editor:
Étienne, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights on this exciting win and its implications for Kalif Landia’s future. The world of harness racing eagerly anticipates what this talented horse will achieve next.
Étienne Dubois:
It’s a pleasure. Kalif Landia’s story is truly inspiring, and I, for one, am excited to see what he accomplishes in the months to come.
