November 20, 2016 – Venkatesh (7m Varenne-Honey Face) stormed home in the four wide path to win the harness racing Prix de Cosse Le Vivien (purse €75,000, 2100 meters, 15 European starters) at Vincennes.

The Lutfi Kolgjini trainee was driven by Pierre Vercruysse for Sweden’s Stall Venkatesh.

The 21.1/1 odds winner was timed in 1.11.8kr off quick fractions (1.07.6kr at 1500 to go, 1.10.9 at the 1000; 1.12kr at 500 remaining.

Even-money favorite Reckless (6m Ready Cash-Haver) held for second the photo finish with Bjorn Goop aboard, also trainer/owner. Ulexa des Plans (8f Jag de Bellouet-Lola Dessuti) was third for pilot Matthieu Abrivard and trainer Philippe Deaugeard.

Thomas H. Hicks