Olympic rookie jumping champion at the Rio Olympics last summer, Philippe Rozier is a horse man with a passion for trotting. He gives us his vision of the Prix d’Amérique Opodo and the atmosphere he particularly appreciates.
Philippe Rozier is one of the four members of the French show jumping horse racing team in Rio in 2016. Born with horses, son of Marcel Rozier, also Olympic champion in 1976 in Montreal, he is also interested in races in general, and enjoy the Trot in particular. For his atmosphere, his family side and the availability of the professionals he has already met. The Olympic champion evokes his encounters and the highlights that the Prix d’Amérique made him live.
WHAT REPRESENTS THE GRAND PRIX D’AMERIQUE FOR YOU?
A little like the J.O., it is the pinnacle, the consecration of the best trotter of the world in a race that is followed all over the world. I think this is the ultimate competition for those who see it from the outside. And for those who participate, an intense moment. I like the atmosphere that reigns in the stands, the friendly side, available people, professionals like the others.
A MEMORABLE REMEMBER OF THE PRIX D’AMERIQUE?
My strongest memory is Ourasi, who was called the Lazy King. We were invited by the sponsor who was the same for us in jumping, and I saw him win his second Prix d’Amérique with such ease. He was a real star, like some sports stars now, everybody had their eyes on Ourasi, forgetting the others. And all this enthusiasm around him had surprised and seduced me. And then there was such an atmosphere. It was a very amazing feeling in an unforgettable atmosphere.
ANECDOTE ON THE AMERICAN PRIZE?
Not really, but when we came to Vincennes to celebrate our Olympic title, I participated in a small race with Jean-Michel Bazire, whom I already knew. A big moment. The contact with the drivers pleases me, the tactical side of the race, and then this feeling of having no other contact with the horse than the reins. We riders are in the saddle, we can feel the animal, make body with it. The drivers, they have only their hands, it’s pretty bluffing. And then the relaxation of Jean-Michel is incredible.
WHERE WILL YOU SUNDAY?
I have to go to a national competition at Le Mans, because I prepare my horses for the World Cup and the Grand Prix 5-star Bordeaux, but I will arrange to see him on TV … My favorite? Obviously, Bold Eagle. I think it will mark its time. In any case, it’s going to be a very tactical race …
(Source: Turfcom)
