A second tier starting spot and 23-1 shot didn't give Canada's Austin Sorrie the best chances in his European driving debut, but the talented sulkysitter made the most of his opportunity with an effort that just missed the top three.

Starting from post 14 in the 2025 Prix des Rencontres Internationales on Friday, Nov. 28 at Hippodrome de Vincennes in Paris, France, Sorrie got away last early with Great D'Arry, unhurried in the 2,100 event for 18,000 EUR claiming trotters. He improved a position at the halfway mark, swung into the three wide path with about 500 metres to go and then closed with a flourish in the stretch to finish fourth by just over a length.

The race was won by 8/5 favourite Itro driven by France's Eric Raffin. Itro nosed out Helios Des Champs, driven by Austria's Gerhard Mayr, with Greffiers Flinois in third for Germany's Michael Nimczyk.

Fans of Canadian harness racing likely recognize each of those drivers. Raffin drove French trotter Rapide Lebel at Woodbine Racetrack in the 2011 Breeders Crown Open Trot, Mayr competed in the 2017 World Driving Championship when it was held in Canada, and Nimczyk has frequently represented Germany in the World Driving Championship as well, including the recently concluded 2025 edition.

Sorrie was invited to participate in the race as Canada’s leading driver in wins for 2025, with an impressive 369 victories to date. He told Trot Insider that his experience was incredible and his horse performed as well as he could have asked. 

"I had an amazing experience. The facility and track were top notch as were all the trainers, grooms and other drivers," said Sorrie. "My horse was great. Got away at the back and as soon as he got out and going, he was all trot. Just needed a little more track and I think we are right there for the win."

To watch Sorrie's race, click here.

(Standardbred Canada)