Britain wins Evry finale

The Peter Makin-trained Wilcuma, ridden by John Reid, took the main race on the last ever Evry card yesterday, ploughing through the mud to land the Listed Prix Edellic. Wilcuma, a 5-2 shot on the Pari-mutuel, scooted home by four lengths from Le Conquet.

Evry, which opened only in 1973 and has some of the best turf and most modern facilities of any French track, is to be closed becauseof an agreement between the French government and racing authorities in 1992. It was decided then that a major track had to close in return for government assistance to racing. Chantilly, Maisons- Laffitte and Deauville were all targeted but managed to survive.

All benefited from local support, something which Evry has lacked, plus the fact that they are important training centres.

n The case for allowing diabetics, such as Jonothan Lower, to continue riding is to be discussed at a Jockey Club seminar about the illness today.

n Vindaloo, the winner of 11 starts on the Flat last year, is to embark on a hurdling career.

n The Elite Racing Club is to sponsor the Triumph Hurdle.