It wasn't the placing he hoped for, but Nello Guglielmi picked up a purse cheque for his connections in the 2025 Intercontinental Amateur Cup (Coupe Intercontinentale des Amateurs) at Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes during Prix d'Amerique weekend on Saturday, Jan. 25.
Competing in the amateur driving event in a field of 14, Guglielmi landed in post 13 with Ideal Fleuri, a seven-year-old Insert Gede gelding who was sent postward as the 6-1 third choice. As the race commenced, a green-clad Guglielmi had to grab grips as post six starter First De Rougemont went on a gallop right in front of Ideal Fleuri, causing interference. Guglielmi kept his trotter to task, but was severely hampered and got away second from last in the 2,100-metre event. Eventually moving into the outer flow, Ideal Fleuri closed well in the stretch and finished seventh behind race winner Gizmogold, driven by Germany's Sarah Kube.
"Being invited to race in France was extremely exciting. The city of love can only be appreciated when experienced," Guglielmi told Trot Insider after Saturday's race. "Going into the race I didn't know what to expect. Although suffering from some interference behind the gate which hindered my start, my horse raced very tough to make an honest comeback.
"I am grateful for this experience and it's an honour to represent my country. My wife Lisa and I look forward to enjoying the remainder of our trip and experiencing as much as we can from France."
According to Guglielmi, Sunday's plans include an excursion in the morning and then the Prix d'Amerique before returning to Canada on Wednesday.
A replay of Saturday's race is available here.
(Standardbred Canada)