After the start of the French trotters’ championships last week, the racing highlights this weekend are the four President’s Cup semi-finals being held on Sunday on a 2,640m distance. The first three horses in each heat qualify for the final.

Two meetings will be held, the first on Friday starting at 7pm and the other on Sunday at 1.30pm, with nine trot races in each.

With the first edition taking place nearly 20 years ago, the President’s Cup honours Malta’s head of state and has a philanthropic aim in aid of the Community Chest Fund.

This year this championship reserved for top class trotters has attracted a record number of participants hailing from eight countries, featuring some of Malta’s best trotters, including the legendary In Vitro du Bourg. It also includes winners of past championships, such as last year’s President’s Cup winner Lucas Ness, Autumn Championship winner Livi Cantona and others, as well as some interesting newcomers.

Friday’s race card includes three heats from the SECF championships for French horses, this time those racing in the Copper class (the Prix de Caen). Although this class is the lowest in Maltese trot racing, these three heats are extremely balanced and should provide thrilling outcomes.

As the season enters the last few weeks, horses are primed to reach their peak as they compete for some key championships, further enhancing the strong competitive spirit at the Marsa racecourse.