by Karsten Bønsdorf, USTA Senior Internet Correspondent

The 6-year-old mare, Bellissima France, with her trainer Matthieu Abrivard aboard, won the world’s richest under saddle race, The Prix de Cornulier, over 1-1/16 mile at Vincennes Sunday afternoon (Jan. 22).

Gerard Forni photo

Matthieu Abrivard celebrates his triumph astride Bellissima France in the Prix de Cornulier, the world’s richest RUS race.

Bellissima France was timed in 1:57.3 (mile rate) and picked up a purse of $340,000 for the win. The total purse was $750,000.

Although Bellissima France is registered in France, her pedigree is half French and half American. Her sire, Blue Dream is by Pershing, a son of Nevele Pride, and her dam’s side possesses the bloodlines of Super Bowl, as well Speedy Somolli.

This was the fourth prestigious win a row for the mare and another mare, Tornade du Digeon, finished second to her in this contest.

It was also the fourth time that Matthieu Abrivard won the Prix de Cornulier. He won three times riding the legendary Jag de Bellouet, but it was his first as a trainer.

Not since 1994, where Vive Ludois with Jean Claude Hallais won the Cornulier has a trainer/jockey won the race.

Another big under saddle race, the Prix Camille de Wazieres for 4-year-old male trotters, was won in impressing style by the chestnut, Dollar Macker, who was ridden by Yoann Lebourgeois. Dollar Macker, trained by Philippe Allaire, was timed in 1:55.4 (mile rate) in the 1-5/16 mile event.

Dollar Macker is inbred to 4 x 4 to Armbro Goal.