FRANCOIS the horse (lot 224) was bred by a partnership comprised of François Rohaut, Marc de Chambure and Maurice Lagasse. He went into training with his co-breeder and namesake, for whom he won at Saint-Cloud. Yet it is under the care of another Francois, Nicolle this time, that he showed his true potential when making an impressive winning debut over hurdles last month.

This performance didn’t go unnoticed and Hubie de Burgh had to repel numerous challenges to secure the son of Muhtathir courtesy of a €210,000 bid on behalf of American interests.

“What I liked about him is that he’s got a very good turn of foot,” commented De Burgh on his purchase. “He goes on the top of the ground and he is not an overly heavy horse but has a beautiful action, which will suit American racing. My client has been very successful on the flat and he also has a number of very good jumpers. He likes to buy out of France as he’s had a lot of luck buying of France before as well as racing in France. Let’s hope this is another one of those lucky ones!”

©ZuzannaLupa