“You can’t win the Golden Salki without hurting yourself”: Eric Ruffin, winner for the fourth year in a row

And in the end, Eric Ruffin wins again! For the fourth year in a row, the 41-year-old Vanden wins the Sulky d’or, rewarding the rider with the most race wins in France. Whoever scored 258 Harness Trot victories in 2022 looks back on this challenging season and looks forward to the next Prix d’Amérique with Horsy Dream.

What does this fourth Golden Salka taste like?

Eric Ruffin. It was difficult to win because you had to fight. This one wasn’t easy (He pauses). In any case, the golden Salki cannot be won without getting hurt. I had to travel many kilometers to get there, more than 100,000… I also traveled to the new racecourses: Plestin-les-Greves (Côtes-d’Armor), the new Langon track (Gironde), Granade-sur-Garonne (Haute-Garonne) , Granville (Manche)…

Blame it on Alexander Abrivar, who finished second, who put a lot of pressure on you…

In July I really thought it was screwed up. But I didn’t want to “go to bed”. Fortunately, I had a very good period in September and October when Alexander was no longer so effective. It was the turning point of the year.

Fifth coronation in 2023?

There have been strong blows in recent weeks. Within eight days I lost my friend Frank Ann. (trainer) and one of my uncles. It gives a lot of perspective and reflection. I will try to be less distracted from my results. But rest assured, I will continue to practice my profession as usual. You will see me every day on the racetracks and I will try to win as many races as possible, respecting the horses, the coaches, the guys and the players. The competition is getting tougher and tougher, and if you have to make any sacrifices to win, I will obviously make them.

For four years you spared no effort. How are your loved ones feeling?

My wife is from the seraglio, so she understands the limitations. She remains my first supporter and, fortunately, (laughs). I was lucky that my family life was not affected. The fact that I am not a coach allows me to have some free time for my children and my loved ones.

This year you will be at the start of the Prix d’Amérique with Horsy Dream. Is it a relief?

Last year I got a good slap in the face with a Face Time Bourbon pass a few days before the race. Just thinking about it makes me go crazy (as in the original). I told myself that I was lucky to sit on such a horse, but I was not made to win the America’s Prize. I can guarantee you that this is hard to digest. With Horsey Dream I have a real chance in America.