It was the attraction of the day. In Vincennes, the rows of cars parked in the car park and the crowds gathered around the racecourse track were waiting for only one thing: the start of the Prix de Bretagne (gr.2), a harness trotting classic which offers three tickets for the Prix d’Amérique, just that.
Among the favorites, it was natural to list Hip Hop Haufor and Hooker Berry, respective winners of the last Prix de Bretagne and the 2023 edition of the Prix d’Amérique. However, the surprise has another name: Hussard du Landret. Five minutes before the start, the announcer promised “an open race” with an uncertain outcome. At the end of 2,700m, it’s difficult to prove him wrong. Placed on the first step of the podium at around 3:30 p.m., Benoît Robin did not curb his enthusiasm. “The horse was overexcited. It was perfect, we are happy. It’s just happiness,” rejoiced the 38-year-old from Mayen.
Robin and his three hats
“I was quite worried on the plains, but I managed to slip through and win without bothering anyone,” added the man with the triple driver-trainer-owner hat. His greatest success of 2023. The accomplishment achieved this Sunday, November 19 by Benoît Robin will undoubtedly be a landmark in his mind, because his references at the highest level are rare. In 2022, he already won the Critérium des 5 ans with Hussard du Landret, his only victory in a Group 1.
Congratulated by his clan, Benoît Robin benefited from the respect of the public, who applauded him without restraint. This success secures him a ticket for the Prix d’Amérique, scheduled for January 28. This will be his second participation in this prestigious meeting, having discovered the event at the start of the year. If the status of favorite will not stick to him, the prospect of such an appointment is enough in itself. Seventh in 2023, the driver will return to Vincennes and try to do better in two months.
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