One of the most important championships, that reserved for French trotters, kicks off this weekend, with meetings being held on both Saturday and Sunday, starting at 1.30pm.

A separate championship named after a famous French racecourse will be held for each class, sponsored by the French trotting association, the SECF.

No less than 18 heats (apart from one flat race) will be held this week and the remaining three next week, all over the rather long 2,640m distance.

The most keenly awaited championship is the Prix de Vincennes, reserved for Premier class horses, featuring some of the best French trotters in Malta, including winners of important championships, such as Tazza l-Kbira winner Kakisis, December 2010 Grand Final winner Lou Petiot, former Prix de Vincennes winners Master Perrine, Madis Boy, Mont Cenis Honey and Joker de Choisel and Summer Championship winner Major Chaleonnais.

There are also exciting newcomers, such as Nelson du Val, Nevaio des Bordes, Norman d’Oger, Nuper, Oviedo Vici and last week’s winner Mig of the Wood.

Championships for the other classes are also interesting and balanced and include a mix of well-known horses and various newcomers, all trained specifically for these championships.

A large crowd is expected to attend, with nail-biting finishes being anticipated between horses which will renew here in Malta, the sport rivalry existing between them in France, enabling all enthusiasts to enjoy the rich racing heritage associated with French trotting.