Freddie Head

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June, 19, 1947 - Neuilly, FR

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Chantilly, FR

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What the Nation is saying about Trainer Freddie Head...

Court Vision Shocks Goldikova in BC Mile

Court Vision came from nowhere to nose fellow closer Turallure in a roughly run renewal of the Breeders' Cup Mile.Goldikova, seeking an unprescedented fourth Mile win, had to settle for the show. Jeranimo, Get Stormy, and Sidney's Candy took the early initiative with Goldikova neatly tucked in at th...Read More

Source: horseracingnation.com · Posted 95 days ago ·

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oldfallgal · I can't believe Goldikova wasn't taken down. Peslier oughta to be set down for two weeks, after launching a six-horse demolition derby. This wasn't a maiden claimer at Cahokia Downs. This was a major, multi-million-dollar race, and the Churchill Downs/Breeders Cup stewards brought shame to themselves and the game. Added to the ridiculous Thursday morning turf course closure which wrote finis to the chances of at least four strong European contenders, the display of arrogance and pettiness by officials turned the event into a tawdry exhibition instead of the sport's showcase, as it is intended to be. · 95 days ago ·

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travel_vic · When I worked out the fractions for the Woodbine Mile two years agao, Court Vision had the best closing fraction of any horse I have charted since Secretatiat but it seemed that this one was in decline..Obviously not · 95 days ago ·

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bigfootmauler · yeah that bumper car thing was a dumb idea! that was a huge wreck waiting to happen! · 95 days ago ·

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Cigar16 · The debacle that occured on Thursday from the fallout of CD's decision to not open the turf course for training has become a situation that I now find to be just as humorous (somebody please take Michael Stoute's deplorable trackside rant and make a comical YouTube video of it!) as it is shameful! Shameful for both entities. Despite CD's effort to make trainers aware by broadcasting on several occasions via the PA system the possibility of grass course training closure due to a threat of precipitation, a mess still ensued. WHY, did CD close the course a nanosecond before the scheduled opening? HELLO? I get that it was for legit reasons, but making that decision without facilitating your freaking public/horsemen relations department etc in preemptive coordination with the Euro's was appalling. This is not a normal event. Sorry, but CD definitely dropped that ball! But on the flip side is who the hell does John Gosden, and the most obnoxious, self entitled jackass Michael Stoute think they are in that they feel they can remedy their inconvenience by doing as they please in disregarding the closure, attempting to DISMANTLE the railing, and helping themselves to the course as if they were at home and having a backyard BBQ??? OMG! I was embarrassed for them! We can only hope that this will be at the very least a learning experience for the future.. All of that being said, and being one of the last people to look the other way as protocol is not adhered to, I do not speak lightly when I say that in the grand scheme of things, 10, 20, or a 100 years from now as an American racing fan I DO NOT WANT the unpleasant stigma that would have been ours FOREVER had the stewards DQ'ed Goldikova to LAST, therefore forever tarnishing her image. I am so glad the stewards proved diplomatic, thought of the consequences, and made the RIGHT DECISION! · 94 days ago ·

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likin sparks · Hey, what better way to entice more foreign horses to complete in the BC races, no harm nor foul for bumping. Also CD should have had all the PR and grounds crew out after the rain subsided drying the track off with hair dryers it wasn't good enough! · 94 days ago ·

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Breeders' Cup Handicappers Homework: Breeders' Cup Betting Targets and The Mile Grade 1

Is there another figure more synonymous with the Breeders' Cup Mile than Freddie Head? Five times this man stood in the winner's circle, twice as a jockey aboard Miesque and then the last three years as trainer of Goldikova, a mare requiring no introduction in the racing world. The pre…Read More

Source: theturkandlittleturk.blogspot.com · Posted 102 days ago ·

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Head Believes Goldikova Better Than Ever

Source: bloodhorse.com · Posted 105 days ago ·

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Dream Ahead Upends Goldikova in Foret

FRENCH racegoers were denied the fond farewell they were hoping for in the Prix de la Foret as the great Goldikova was touched off by Dream Ahead (David Simcock/William Buick), who landed the fifth Group 1 of his career after a thrilling finish.The son of Diktat will not race next season and may hav...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 129 days ago ·

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Rossington · Quite frankly, I didn't think Dream Ahead beating Goldikova in the Prix De la Foret was as big of an upset as a lot of analyst made it out to be. It's not as if Goldikova was beaten by some nag in Dream Ahead. We're talking about a horse in Dream Ahead that broke his maiden by 9+ length's first time out at Nottingham racetrack in the UK, and then became a G1 stakes winner in just his second lifetime start. When he shipped to Deauville, France and won the G1 Prix Morny over 6f. Going into the Prix De la Foret, Dream Ahead already had 4 G1 win's over 6f, and he also finished his 2yr.old season in 2010 tied with Frankel for the highest official rating from Timeform among 2yr.old's. Dream Ahead's rating for his G1 Middle Park Stakes win, and Frankel for his G1 Dewhurst Stakes win. I'm not saying I agree with the ratings, but I also don't work for Timeform. All that said about Dream Ahead, I still wouldn't completely write off Goldikova's chances of winning a 4th BC Mile. Although I will admit she looks more vulnerable in this one than any of the other 3 BC Mile's that she's won. But Goldikova's saving grace in the race may come in the form of something I've heard a lot racing analyst say about her over the years. In Europe and America. That although Goldikova's raced far less in America than she has in Europe. She may actually be more effective on American racetracks, because she seems to run a mile better going around turns than she does on the straight mile track's in Europe. I tend to agree with that comment. Because when you watch Goldikova in her previous BC Mile win's, she explodes around turns in those races. It seems to be where she's able to put distance between herself and the competition. Coming off of turns. · 127 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · I think Goldikova is better around 2 turns too. Plus, she gets a better pace to run at in the USA. In Europe, she is normally very close to the pace because its so slow. Also, in the Prix De la Foret it seemed as she made the lead too soon while Dream Ahead was allowed to buy his time along the outside. She gave a winning effort, so my confidence in her chances to win the BC mile hasn't waivered. · 127 days ago ·

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footlick · I think hat she is running against better horses his year. Other than Makfi, Paco Boy was he best horse she ran against last year. This year she has run against Canford Cliffs, Immortal Verse and Dream Ahead. IMO they are more in Makfi's league than Paco Boy's. But she seems to love American tracks and American racing and you can't say that about all Euros. She will be a tough bet against here, unless you feel she is going to go off form. · 127 days ago ·

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Sister Act Highlights Sensational Arc Day Card

Goldikova and her kid sister Galikova highlight a spectacular day of racing at LongchampRead More

Posted 132 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · I know many are rooting for Galikova in the Arc, but I think it will be So You Think who adds another cherry to a phenomenal career on Sunday. · 132 days ago ·

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medlocke · This is generally the time of the year that you see Goldikova come into her level. Not that she doesn't already look sensational during the rest of the year, too. I think she'll win the G1 Prix De l' Foret again on Sunday. As for Galikova, she's been one of the most rapidly improving fillies in Europe this season. 3yr.old or otherwise. Personally, I would rank only Sarafina slightly above her among the French fillies this season. I think Galikova has a very live chance in this year's Arc. As a matter of fact, I'm using her to finish 3rd in my Arc super-fecta. It's been a long dry spell for Coolmore in this race. But I believe they have an outstanding chance of securing an Arc win this season with 4 of the best in their stable entered. So You Think, St Nicholas Abbey, Treasure Beach, and Seville. I believe So You Think has just exactly the kind of class a horse needs to win an Arc, and I believe he'll do just that on Sunday. With the ground supposedly going to be much faster than it was when he ran in the Prix Foy. It wouldn't surprise me to see a big run out of St Nicholas Abbey either? He's been at his best this season on ground that was really fast when he won the G3 Ormonde Stakes at Chester and the G1 Coronation Cup at Epsom. JMO. · 132 days ago ·

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medlocke · @BrianZipse, I agree, 110%!! Heffernan just needs to get So You Think to settle early, and ride him a little patiently at 12f than he usually does at 10f. As long as Seamie Heffernan does those 2 thing's? I believe So You Think will take care of the rest. If he win's or run's a really big race in the Arc on Sunday? I believe we'll see this horse come calling at Churchill Downs in November for the BC Classic. Right now Brian, I have So You Think-Sarafina-Galikova figured for my Arc tri-fecta. I'm debating between Workforce, St Nicholas Abbey, and Snow Fairy as to which one to use to complete my Arc super-fecta. I had initially chosen Snow Fairy. But I after some reflection, it may be presuming too much to think that 3 fillies will round out the first 4 places in the finish of this year's Arc? JMO. · 132 days ago ·

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Rossington · For those considering backing Workforce to repeat as Arc champion this year? Fair warning!! It's news on almost every European racing web-site today that Sir Michael Stoute has voiced BIG CONCERNS about the ground at Longchamp on Sunday being far faster than what is to Workforce's liking. Stoute said it's no secret that Workforce is a better horse with some cut in the ground. But he's not sure that Workforce is going to get that on Sunday? Something to bear in mind. Stoute and Prince Khalid Abdullah sent Workforce all the way over from the UK to Churchill Downs for last year's BC Turf, and he was scratched out of the race on BC Turf day for precisely the same reasons. · 132 days ago ·

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yukichan · Agree...it is SYT's race to lose, but the talent in this race is pretty awesome. And what do you think of the supplement of Meandre, Danedream, and Masked Marvel? Make the Arc even more exciting and complicated...for second place! I think the firm/fast going also works against Danedream. So my picks are SYT, Sarafina, Galikova. · 132 days ago ·

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BrianAppleton · I'll be rooting for Goldikova to romp in the Forex with all my heart, she's incredible! I think it would be really neat to see Workforce repeat in the Arc, but So You Think and Sarafina look fantastic. · 132 days ago ·

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Connections high on Galikova's Arc chances

CONNECTIONS of Galikova reckon the Prix Vermeille winner has a solid chance of becoming just the third three-year-old filly in 30 years to win the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.The Freddy Head-trained daughter of Galileo is as short as 6-1 to win at Longchamp on Sunday, having won impressively over the ...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 133 days ago ·

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Sarafina Takes Arc Prep at Longchamp

PRIX FOY winner Sarafina is as short as 3-1 (from 4) for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on October 2 following her last-gasp success in the Group 2 at Longchamp on Sunday.The four-year-old had a nightmare passage but accelerated through a tiny gap inside the final furlong under Christophe Lemai...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 150 days ago ·

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Goldikova to Prep for BC Mile in Foret

Goldikova will not bid to win her 15th top-level race at Longchamp on Sunday as trainer Freddy Head has had a change of mind about the outstanding mare's autumn campaign.Rather than running in the Prix du Moulin she will wait for the Prix de la Foret on October 2 before her bid for an unprecedented ...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 155 days ago ·

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medlocke · Goldikova's used the G1 Prix De l' Foret as her spring board to the Breeders Cup Mile for the past 2 seasons. So if ain't broke, don't fix it!! · 155 days ago ·

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tiznow · All I needed to hear was they are still coming to BC! · 155 days ago ·

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rossington · Right after her loss in the Jacques Le Marois, Freddie Head kept saying repeatedly for over a week that Goldikova would run in the G1 Prix Du Moulin next. Head to immediate about face on that when as soon as he realized that Immortal Verse's connection's intended to run her in the Moulin instead of Royal Bench. I have to say, in all the years that Goldikova has been racing now, this is really the first time I've ever seen Freddie Head show any kind of sign of fear about taking Goldikova into a race. Don't really blame Head for sidestepping the Moulin in favor of the Foret after the drumming that Goldikova got from Immortal Verse in the Jacques Le Marois. · 154 days ago ·

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TimSmith · For the Age she is combined with the NUMEROUS G!s vs so many great horses why not give her a breather before she goes for FOUR. If she wins this race I doubt another horse will ever match her feat of 4 BC wins. · 154 days ago ·

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medlocke · @TimSmith, Zenyatta her chance to win 3 Breeders Cup races, and fell short by inches. The only other horse that spring's to mind that I feel would have matched Goldikova's 3 Breeders Cup Mile win's would've been Conduit. Had Sir Michael Stoute not retired him, and brought him to Churchill Downs for the 2010 Breeders Cup Turf. All and all, the 2010 B.C. Turf was a very weak renewal. As the 2011 Sheema Classic showed when B.C. Turf winner, Dangerous Midge, finished dead last of 14, and B.C. Turf 2nd, Champ Pegasus, finished 12th of 14. I have absolutely no doubt had he been in the race that Conduit would've blitzed Dangerous Midge, Champ Pegasus, and Behkabad, and won the B.C. Turf for a third time!! TJMO. · 154 days ago ·

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WesWhite · What did Zenyatta have to do with this conversation. As usual an obsessed Zen fan wants to interject her in something that has nothing to do with her. Goldi is a champion on the track, Zenyatta was a champion in people's hearts. · 154 days ago ·

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CraigBradshaw · zenyatta and goldikova have turned fans on to the last 3 breeders cups. going for the 4th straight in the mile will be one of the highlight races of bc11. · 151 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · medlocke : I've lost all faith in your knowledge of horse racing with these type of childish threads. Zenyatta was better than Goldilocks ever thought of being because she ran the classic distance by which all horses are judged by except on this site where they try to feed you that stuff about distance doesn't matter. Go tell it to the breeders! · 150 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Goldikova Going for 4 icy..A feat that may never be duplicated again.. Goldikova = Amazing. · 150 days ago ·

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Goldikova chases 15th Group 1 win in Marois

Wonder-mare Goldikova pursues the 15th Group/Grade 1 of her incredible career Monday in the Jacques le Marois.Read More

Posted 180 days ago ·

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zatt · She can tie John Henry ... Go Goldikova! · 180 days ago ·

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tiznow · Goldikova is without question the greatest miler in history. a war horse, an iron horse...always shows up. I don't care if she's labeled a miler, she's one of the top horses of all time male or female. Gol Di Ko Va...Gol Di Ko Va!!! · 180 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · @tiznow - I'm glad to hear someone agrees with me. She is the best...I can't imagine how many will compare with her if she manages to win the Mile again. Go Goldikova! · 180 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · I also Agree she is one of a kind . An amazing horse! · 180 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · I forgot to mention Prix Rothschild runner up Sahpresa is also running, as well as Immortal Verse. Very strong field. · 180 days ago ·

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Zenyatta-Perfection Personified · I can't wait! She is the class of the world's horses right now. And I love how her connections always challenge her and don't duck anyone. · 180 days ago ·

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annmatt · She's like the Energizer bunny....she just keeps on running! She is totally amazing. Just wish those French races had English voice-overs! · 180 days ago ·

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fonnerparkfilly · Win, lose or tie Monday, Goldikova is in a class by herself. Even as great as Zarkava seemed to be, comparing a horse like Goldi to a horse who ran a total of 7 times is utterly ridiculous. In horse racing longevity and stamina determine greatness. 7 races doesn't make a great champion. Losing doesn't prevent a champion from being great. You are great Goldikova, kick ass on Monday. · 178 days ago ·

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footlick · fonnerparkfilly- and running 7 times does not disqualify a horse from greatness either. Have you ever watched Zarkava's races? Do you realize she was a two year old champion, a three year old champion and a Cartier HOY? You are really going to say she was not a champion nor was she great? Soumillon never uncocked his whip in any of her races, not even the Arc where she rallied from 17th after a rough race being stuck on the rail most of the way. She broke from the #1 post. Research and find out how long it had been that a horse won from that post. She totally dominated Goldikova and every other horse she ran against. The number of starts a horse has made does not make them great. The horse itself makes him or herself great. If you cannot see how great Zarkava was then I feel sorry for you. Goldikova couldn't even warm her up. It took Goldikova two more full years of racing to reach Zarkava's timeform rating. Zarkava easily beat Goldikova at Goldikova's distance in the Puoliches. Where does it say a horse has to make a certain amount of starts before it is considered great? Has Goldikova ever run in a race with the collective strength of competition of the Arc? Zarkava was great and a true champion. Too bad you can't appreciate her. Maybe dubby30 would like to add more? Love Goldikova all you want, she is a great horse. But don't try to tear down a true champion to do it because of the amount of races won. That is ridiculous. · 178 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · Great post Footlick and I totally agree. Zarkava was on a different plane IMO when comparing the two. Other greats haven’t had lengthily careers. Sea-Bird the No. 1 Time Form rating all time at 145 raced 8 times with 7 wins. Tudor Minstrel, tied for 2nd on the Time Form rating with 144 raced 10 times with 8 wins, and Dancing brave tied for 8th on the time Form rating all time with a 140 raced 10 times with 8 wins. Goldikova never raced against competition as deep in talent as these horses competed against nor at the distances either. · 178 days ago ·

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footlick · Thanks Laz. It just amazes me that Zarkava can be so summarily dismissed because she ran 7 times. Absurd. Thanks for posting the info onthe other "sparingly" raced horses. I'm sure someone will comment and refute their greatness also because of the amount of starts they had. · 178 days ago ·

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fonnerparkfilly · WHY is longevity and stamina markers when determining greatness in a thoroughbred? I'll tell you why. Even the fastest, most talented horses who are seemingly "invincible" can only truely be tested by father time. First of all, "greatness" has many faces. Not all great thoroughbreds are created equal. Good horses can run great unforgetable races and great ones can lose races without losing heart. Zarkava was no doubt a great horse during her time on the track. How long she could've continued to shine, we'll never know. Some horses have had phenominal periods in their careers only to come up short later. Rachel Alexander 2009 for an example. Thoroughbreds get tired, body sore, and burned out. To overcome these things is a test of a true champion. For a champion who retires after only 7 races, it's not even an issue. I see stamina and physical endurance as being markers for greatness also. Ruffian was great, but she was a "paper doll". She broke down and left her life on the track as many other have. The fact that Goldikova is still in one piece is unmeasurable in value. How long would Zarkava have run without succumbing to physical problems? We'll never know, a champion who graced the track 7 times with her presence leaves too many unanswered questions. We know what Goldikova is made of, she's not a mystery, she's a marvel. · 178 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · fonnerparkfilly: While I don't necessarily agree with your last post I admire the fact that you not only made a case for your prior thread but were passionate about it while remaining civil, something I have to work on. Have a nice day · 178 days ago ·

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footlick · fonnerparkfilly- first, calling Ruffian a "paper doll" is sad. If you have ever read about her you would know she was a tough filly. Her leg snapped because she hit her shoulder on the starting gate at the beginning of the match race. It torqued her leg, which when put to extreme physical pressure snapped. Second, I am not going to go back and forth about Zarkava. You go head and believe Zarkava was only a mystery. I will remember that Goldikova was not in her league. You believe what you want about Zarkava and the other greats who have not run as much as Goldikova. I'm glad you are so passionate about her. Have a great time posting. · 178 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · footlick : That is really interesting as I always accepted the explanation she was soft boned and it would have happened eventually. · 178 days ago ·

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footlick · I'm only going by what her trainer was quoted as saying after they found out that she suffered a hairline fracture in the Spinaway. She was high spirited and considered more colt-like than feminine, if I remember correctly. But I could be remembering wrong, I guess. She won the Spinaway in 1:08 that day I believe, just to bring an example of her speed. I think she was hard-running as most speed horses are. As fast as she ran, if she was soft-boned, I doubt she would have survived racing as long as she did. Then it is generally accepted that the injury that eventually snapped her leg happened because of the starting gate incident. · 178 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · based on what your saying and your memory which I trust more than "google" as things get twisted I'll have to re-evaluate this filly. your right though she ran 1st quarters in the 21:. change category so as you say it should have happened then. ty · 178 days ago ·

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footlick · I knew she came out of the Spinaway with a hairline fracture, but had to look up the time. I also read that she popped a splint in the race with Hot N Nasty, was it the Sorority??? Maybe that was why the race was closer than her others. · 178 days ago ·

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fonnerparkfilly · I used the term "paper doll" in reference to Ruffian, but meant no disrespect, perhaps a poor choice of words. She was great, and no doubt tough, but nevertheless succumbed to injury. Do you realize how many good horses and potentially great ones meet their demise by way of injuries? The list is a long one, I assure you. That fact only makes thoroughbreds like Goldi all the more special. The only point I was trying to get across was that time is a marker in determining how great a horse really is. That's not intended to take anything away from champions like Zarkava. I'm just saying, don't underestimate how much father time can wear down a horse and be a game changer. · 177 days ago ·

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footlick · I don't underestimate it at all. But I also realize that a horse can be greater even with only 7 starts. Time is one of many things to evaluate, but it cannot be the trump. Many Euros were sad that the Aga Khan retired Zarkava because they believed she would have become the highest weighted filly/mare of all time. But it didn't happen and they weren't surprised as he liokes to get his bloodstock inthe breeding shed as soon as possible. He breeds his own thoroughbreds and usually retires his Arc winners. But, the Euros have not reduced her greatness because of it. They love Goldikova's durability and longevity, but they knew they were watching something extremely special with Zarkava. All I am saying is that you cannot pemnalize a horse for runnoing only 7 races. It does not take away the greatness of the animal. On the paper doll comment, I assumed that you did not mean disrespect. I should not have commented on it and I apologize for that. I should have just let that go. · 177 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · I don’t really know what farther time has to do with greatness. The ability to rise to the occasion in dominating fashion is what does it for me. Jean Cruguet who rode the great Seattle Slew through his Triple Crown victories, the same Seattle Slew who is in everyone’s top ten of the greatest N/A race horses all time, said that the best horse he ever rode was Hoist the Flag, a brilliant 2 year old that broke down just before his TC quest, and Hoist the Flag only ran 6 times, winning all six but being DQ’d from an easy victory in the Champagne………When Zarkava totally dominated Goldikova in the French 1000 Guineas and again in the French Oaks, they were both fillies 4th and 5th lifetime starts. She won those races with consummate ease, as easy as she won every other race in her brilliant, one for the ages, career. In her sixth race, the Prix Vermeille, she was left at the gate and was at least ten lengths behind the next horse before starting her run. She won the 12F race easy by 2 lengths in 2.26, tying the stakes record. In the Arc she once again trailed before making her run and winning by 2 lengths, the first filly to win the race in 15 years, and this against a very tough field. Her owner, the Aga Khan whose family was steeped in race tradition and who owned many of the world’s best race horses including Sinndar, Dalakhani, Daylami, Shahrastani, Blushing Groom and, Shergar, and whose family has won dozens of English and European Classic races, stated that Zarkava represented the pinnacle in his family’s 90 year in horse racing……….As for Ruffian, her record and her reputation and the esteem with which many old-timers hold her says it all. Her injury wasn’t a normal breakdown as she hit the gate, which started a sort of chain reaction that lead to her demise. Her total dominance, fast and powerful stride and her rare cruising abilities are what set her apart from most of the top fillies/mares. · 177 days ago ·

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footlick · Laz- nice post. I guess I am just amazed at how people just summarily dismiss Zarkava. Also, another horse in the Hoist the Flag category, imo, was Graustark. · 177 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · Hey Footlick……..I really enjoyed the way you tried to explain just how great Zarkava was. I still have a hard time accepting her Time Form Rating of 133, especially when All Along is rated at 135 along with Dahlia, Black Cavier and Peebles, all of whom are great, but are and were they better than Zarkava. People rave about Rachel Alexandra winning a G1 route race against older G1 males at three. What Zarkava did was significantly more difficult……a three year old filly defeating salty Group One males three and up in the Arc at 1 5/8 miles. This seems to be lost on many fans and like you, I don’t understand why. That’s horse racing I guess………………Graustark was another great one that unfortunately didn’t race long enough to move way up in that top 15 or 20 list where he certainly belongs. Wasn’t it you that said that his jockey Braulio Baeza, also the regular jockey of Buckpasser, considered Graustark the best horse he had ever ridden? · 177 days ago ·

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footlick · Laz- you would really need to research the ratings that those females had at 3 to make a valid comparison. Remember it took Goldikova two more years of racing before she achieved the same timeform rating. I feel it could have been stronger, but they have to weigh it in context of the other horses in the race and the weight that she carried also. Her raw rating was 127, I believe, and then they upped it because of her trip and the ease that she won. As far as Baeza, he said did say Graustark was the best horse he ever rode. But I thought you mentioned it first to me???? · 176 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · Graustark 3yo 1966-His Majesty 3yo 1971 who were full brothers would have face Buckpasser and Hoist The Flag respectively. Only Buckpasser and His Majesty remained sound (somewhat). Except for injuries anyone of these four were potential triple crown winners · 176 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · The reason I mention Graustark and His Majesty was as they were both sons of the great Ribot. Sorry for the omission. · 176 days ago ·

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LAZMANNICK · Footlick……….I was thinking the same myself about Zarkava that if she had raced longer, especially at four, that she would probably have gained a higher Time Form number…….I’ve always had a bit of a soft spot for Pebbles. I remember her BC Turf win in 1985, a tremendous run from the back of the pack and getting the 12F in 2.27 while smashing Aqueduct’s track record for the distance. Along with Miss Alleged, they are the only two fillies to win this race. That year Pebbles defeated males four times in stakes, three of them in Group One/G1, including defeating the Arc winner Rainbow Quest…….I was lucky enough to see All Along and Dahlia is person. Both had devastating runs from well back and tremendous bursts of speed. All Along defeated males five times in her career and in a span from Oct 2-83 to Nov 12-83 she won the 12F Arc in France, the 13F Rothman’s (Canadian) International in Canada, the 12F Turf Classic at Aqueduct and the 12F DC International at Laurel, four of the toughest races in the world in a six week span with the last three on tiring yielding tracks, and she won them by an average of just under 4 lengths……Dahlia defeated males eleven times including nine in Group One-G1 stakes. She was voted No. 50 on the Bloodhorse top 100, which puts her at fifth best filly-mare and the highest filly-mare rating on grass. · 176 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · 7 races really isnt a long enough career to proclaim her so fantastic. Who knows she may have been like R.A take time off and struggle the following year? · 176 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · In this age of racing it's hard to compare careers that are so drastically different from each other. Goldikova excells at 1 mile and Zarkava loved a "route" race. Longervity shouldn't determine greatness, it should only help define it if it's already in the horse. Zarkava was great and didn't need a long career to prove it, if she had continued racing who knows how great she could have been, but her stats are incredible as they stand now. Goldikova is great and has proven that many times over the course of five years worth of racing. · 176 days ago ·

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footlick · KyOaksRunner- Zarkava excelled at any distance she ran as evidence by her stakes record she set in the Pouliches at 1 mile. But thank you for recognizing her greatness. · 176 days ago ·

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Freddie Head’s latest star has qualifications for BC Mile

Yesterday at Deauville in the Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest-Goldikova at 1300 meters, trainer Freddie Head unveiled his latest star, the three-year-old filly Moonlight Cloud. She’s owned and was bred by American George Strawbridge Jr. and may well join Goldikova in the BC Mile. Mr. Strawbridge has ...Read More

Source: sidfernando.wordpress.com · Posted 184 days ago ·

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Goldikova: The Newest Wonder of the World

Wonder-mare Goldikova became the first horse to win 4 consecutive Group 1's in France since the European Pattern System was first initialized in 1971, when she captured the Prix Rothschild for her 14th career Group/Grade 1 win. Read More

Posted 191 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · She is Amazing!! · 191 days ago ·

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Winplacsho · It would be awesome if the 3 euros all make it to CD safe & sound in November. Might be the greatest BC race ever (at least since the '89 Classic)...just hope it lives up to the hype. · 191 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · @timgsmith - Absolutely, so amazing! · 190 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · @Winplacesho - That would be a Breeders' Cup Mile to rival all others. Personally I think any Mile with Goldikova entered lives up the hype without any help. · 190 days ago ·

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Goldikova back in Prix Rothschild

Champion Goldikova returns to action this Sunday in the Prix Rothschild on Sunday, chasing her fourth consecutive victory in the prestigious event for fillies and mares. Read More

Posted 192 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · 4 Rothschilds and 4 Breeders' Cup Miles??? What a mare! · 193 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · Amazing...I really hope she gets both this year! Midday is doing pretty awesome as well, would love to see her win at the Breeders' Cup again also. · 193 days ago ·

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medlocke · @BrianZipse, I'm quite certain Goldikova will win a 4th Prix Rothschild. But I wouldn't ring up her 4th B.C. Mile so quickly, just yet? Just because Frankel beat Canford Cliffs doesn't mean that Goldikova will, and he's coming to the Breeders Cup Mile this year. · 193 days ago ·

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BrianZipse · Oh, I was not ... the question marks meant could she really win these race 4 years in a row??? Amazing! · 193 days ago ·

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mary.schweitzer · Goldi looked very impressive in winning her 4th Prix Rothschild today. Won easily while being geared down by Peslier (who also notched the 100th group I victory of his career) over a nice group of fillies. So looking forward to seeing her this fall; probably *won't* get to see Midday, since Sir Henry is not fond of Churchill Downs (and running under the lights in 20 degree temps). · 192 days ago ·

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Zenyatta-Perfection Personified · Best racehorse in the world. Male OR female. · 192 days ago ·

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KyOaksRunner · @Zenyatta-Perfection Personified - In complete agreement! It amazes me that's she's been able to stay in such amazing form for so many years at the very top of the game! · 192 days ago ·

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racingrocks · Absolutely amazing once again from the greatest female turf runner in the world! · 192 days ago ·

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kentuckyracer · Now let's get that Breeders' Cup Mile #4! Go GOlidkova!! · 192 days ago ·

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oaksandderby · 14 Group 1's now!! · 192 days ago ·

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Goldikova Seeks Fourth Prix Rothschild

France: Goldikova could face the Falmouth Stakes 1-2-3 as she bids to complete a four-timer in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville on Sunday. The Henry Cecil-trained Timepiece, dual Sun Chariot Stakes winner Sahpresa and David Simcock's First City all feature among 13 horses engaged in the former Prix ...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 196 days ago ·

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medlocke · Timepiece, Sahpresa, and First City all ran a great race at Newmarket in the G1 Falmouth Stakes this year. But Deauville is home field advantage for Goldikova. It's like her backyard. Her personal playground. Goldikova has run in 5 G1 races at Deauville in during her career, and won 4 of the 5. Her only loss ever at the track was in last season's G1 Prix Jacques-Lemoire. When she was beaten by English 2000 Guineas winner, Makfi, on ground far too soft for Goldikova's liking. But in 3 prior G1 Prix Rothschild attempts, she's never struggled to beat other fillies and mares at Deauville. · 196 days ago ·

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Canford Cliffs Denies Goldikova in Queen Anne

CANFORD CLIFFS won a thrilling Queen Anne Stakes from the well-backed favourite Goldikova, with Cityscape back in third. Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 239 days ago ·

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TimSmith · What was the winning time? · 239 days ago ·

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xMystix · From what I heard from the TVG people over there, they don't do race times. So we have to go on the visual performance. Anyone, correct me if I'm wrong on this. · 239 days ago ·

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amfuller · They are showing a time of 1:38.38 · 239 days ago ·

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xMystix · Thanks, amfuller! I'm more familiar with times on our tracks over in North America, so for that time, is that considered a great, relatively decent/ good, or poor showing? I'm still a bit unfamiliar with racing times across the Pond, as it were. · 239 days ago ·

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ruffian75 · All I know, is that their times are slower. I do comparative times, with the aid of the Track Equalization Chart. It is very difficult to grade their times, for they are a lot slower. Probably, due to tracks that are more subjected to clammy, off weather. They do have something, I think, that's called Time Formulator, which is equal to the Beyer Speed Rating over here. That's probably the best gauge, is to familiarize yourself with the Time Formulator. At least that would give you an idea of the best across te pond. · 239 days ago ·

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evo1980 · Canford cliffs the worlds best miler! if in doubt he will prove it in the breeders cup mile this year! goldikova stay at home. · 239 days ago ·

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Thead'or · ^She knows Churchill. Canford has never done anything but run in a straight line. He doesn't know the turns of American tracks, Goldikova has an obvious advantage. I believe she'll win it again. Like she always does. · 239 days ago ·

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medlocke · Thead'or, Canford Cliffs knows the turns at Goodwood, because he beat Rip Van Winkle over them in last year's Sussex. I don't by any means take anything away from Goldikova. She ran another great race at Ascot today, as per usual. But she finally ran into a horse in the Hannon barn that wasn't named Paco Boy or Dick Turpin. She ran into Canford Cliffs. A horse that I've been saying every since his 3yr.old season has every bit the turn of foot, or better than Goldikova. No excuses for either of them today. Simply put, Canford Cliffs turn of foot was just a good deal more emphatic than Goldikova's was in the Queen Anne. · 239 days ago ·

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horsisars · Oh dont jump the gun.. that is one race and they battled it pretty hard.. I would never count Goldikiova out and I believe she will bounce back to get Canford Cliffs in the next one.. · 239 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Just watched coverage of the race and they said Goldikova was a bit hotter than usual before the race. · 239 days ago ·

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Rossington · I don't believe very many people saw past the "big 2", Canford Cliffs and Goldikova, finishing 1-2 in this race, one way or another? But I would imagine that trainer Roger Charlton and Prince Khalid Abdullah would have to be ecstatic about the way that Cityscape ran in this race. He really laid down a late challenge, and briefly looked like he might really hit the wire with Canford Cliffs and Goldikova. But it was still a career best for Cityscape. Beaten 1-3/4 lengths by Canford Cliffs, and 1 length by Goldikova. Cityscape ended the 2010 season with win's in the listed Superior Mile at Haydock, and the G3 Joel Stakes at Newmarket. Then made his seasonal debut at Sandown, where he was beaten by 2-1/4 lengths by Dick Turpin in the G2 Bet365 Mile. Most people had Cityscape figured to finish behind Cape Blanco, Rio De La Plata, and some figured even behind Ransom Note also. I think this race will give Cityscape a huge dose of confidence, and I don't doubt Charlton looking for a strong G2 or another G1 over a mile for Cityscape to contest in the very near future!! TJMO. · 239 days ago ·

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bigfootmauler · not every horse is perfect! but she sure can run! hope they dont run her too old! · 238 days ago ·

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Goldikova, Canford Cliffs Clash at Ascot

Goldikova's eagerly-anticipated clash with Canford Cliffs looks set for Tuesday, with the two star milers both among the early entries for the Gr1 Queen Anne Stakes, opening event of the five-day Royal Ascot festival, which runs from June 14 through Saturday, June 18.Read More

Source: horseracingnation.com · Posted 240 days ago ·

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horsisars · I cant wait to see this race... I watched some Canford Cliffs races and it is going to be tough for Goldikova... but I still think she is the best and will put Canford Cliffs away... I hope. · 240 days ago ·

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TimSmith · This is a great match up!! GOOOOOldikova · 240 days ago ·

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xMystix · Definitely waking up early to watch all of this tomorrow ;). · 240 days ago ·

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12thCrown · We need a big race to get excited about after that weird Belmont! Hoping Gold' can strike again to keep our interest through the Breeders' Cup so she can get her due!! · 240 days ago ·

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xMystix · 12thCrown, I agree! I don't think she gets enough due just because she is a foreign horse. · 240 days ago ·

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Goldikova, Canford Cliffs to Meet at Royal Ascot

THE clash everyone was hoping would kick off Royal Ascot on June 14 is set to become a reality after Goldikova’s trainer Freddie Head revealed to the Racing Post the wonder mare would take on Canford Cliffs in the Queen Anne Stakes. Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 253 days ago ·

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amfuller · Is there a Like button on here? :o) · 253 days ago ·

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AndyScoggin · Wow, I would love to go to Ascot someday. I went to York on my honeymoon. · 252 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · Great race!! American trainers should learn from the euros. There race horses so RACE them. · 252 days ago ·

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juststacey · My cousin and her husband will almost certainly be there in person. Jealous... · 252 days ago ·

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xMystix · Would love, love, LOVE to go there in person to watch history be made. I'm really envious of those who will be there in person to watch. Any idea whether these races will be televised by HRTV or TVG? Because I am so willing to stay up all night or get up early to watch. · 252 days ago ·

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Goildikova Triumphant Again

GOLDIKOVA stretched her phenomenal record to 13 Group 1 wins as she started her season with victory in the Prix d'Ispahan. The wonder mare held off the challenge of Cirrus Des Aigles by a neck with Rajsaman three-quarters of a lengthback in third. Ransom Note and Dick Turpin, the two British runners...Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 262 days ago ·

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timgsmith10 · What an amazing Racehorse!! · 262 days ago ·

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StaceyCoyne · LOVE LOVE LOVE this mare!! · 261 days ago ·

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RaTalk_Girl · She is great, I love to watch her races. Hope to see her live again this year. · 261 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · you'll see her,again,and again etc. ad nauseum · 257 days ago ·

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RaTalk_Girl · icyhotboo, I appreciate that you think I am going to see her so many times live, but I just meant at the Breeder's Cup. LOL · 257 days ago ·

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icyhotboo · What I meant was outside of the mares there is no one left to run they all went out to stud to produce more studders.Personally I've never seen Goldi run live,would love to though she is really something. · 256 days ago ·

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RaTalk_Girl · You are so right, there really is nobody that I really want to see this year thus far. I didn't go to the Breeders Cup with the intention of seeing Goldi, but it was one of the best experiences afterwards. Maybe you will make it to Churchill this year for the Breeder's Cup. :) · 256 days ago ·

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Goldikova Almost Ready to Return

Freddie Head reports his wonder-mare Goldikova to be in the form of her life ahead of yet another season of top-level racecourse action. The six-year-old secured a remarkable third successive victory in the Breeders' Cup Mile at Churchill Downs in November, her 12th triumph in Group or Grade One com...Read More

Source: sportinglife.com · Posted 297 days ago ·

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medlocke · I thoroughly expect Goldikova to have another banner season. If Freddie Head says she's looking as good as ever, you'd better take notice. That said, the one race I really believe Goldikova will be vulnerable in this year is the 2011 Queen Anne Stakes at Royal-Ascot. Richard Hannon will likely be sending Canford Cliffs this year. Which will set up one of the most anticipated turf mile races in many, many years. Hannon ran Paco Boy at Goldikova in the 2010 Queen Anne Stakes, and he came up a short nose short. Hannon ran both Paco Boy and Dick Turpin at Goldikova in the Prix De l' Foret over 7f at Longchamp, and again Goldikova beat Paco Boy a nose, with Dick Turpin 3rd beaten a half-length. But of Hannon's three brilliant milers in his stable in Paco Boy, Dick Turpin, and Canford Cliffs, he's always said Canford Cliffs has the fastest turn of foot of the three, and I believe him. Canford Cliffs has been a beast at Ascot himself. Destroying the Coventry Stakes field in 2009 as a 2yr.old. Then cantering easily by stablemate Dick Turpin to win the 2010 St James's Palace Stakes there as well. Canford Cliffs also ran down and cantered right on by Rip Van Winkle at Goodwood in the 2010 Sussex Stakes as well. This year's Queen Anne Stakes could really be one for the ages, IMO. · 297 days ago ·

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Goldikova's Schedule is Mapped Out

Goldikova could end her career at Hong Kong this season, with the Hong Kong Mile under consideration for the superstar mare who will also be bidding for an unprecedented fourth successive victory in the Breeders' Cup Mile.Read More

Source: racingpost.com · Posted 321 days ago ·

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medlocke · Definitely want to see her win the Breeders Cup Mile again this year if that's what determines whether or not she goes to Sha Tin for the Hong Kong Mile? I've wanted to see Goldikova race in the Hong Kong Mile for the past 3 season's. Her 2011 debut is likely to be at Royal-Ascot in the G1 Queen Anne Stakes again. A race that many analyst are very eager to see, because it could be the first time that Goldikova will face the Richard Hannon's great miler, the 4yr.old Canford Cliffs. In 2010, Canford Cliffs won the G1 Irish 2000 Guineas, the G1 St. James's Palace Stakes, and the G1 Sussex Stakes. But he never encountered Goldikova throughout the season because he's stable mates with both Paco Boy and Dick Turpin. Paco Boy faced Goldikova multiple times in 2010, and Dick Turpin finished 3rd behind Goldikova and Paco Boy in the G1 Prix De La Foret. But Hannon has consistently stated that he believes Canford Cliffs to be the best of the three. · 321 days ago ·

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Freddie Head has two ready for Dubai

Dubai: Freddy Head, the first man ever to win Breeders' Cup races both as a jockey and trainer, says he is hoping to realise an ambition when two of his stable stars take their chances at the Dubai International Racing Carnival. The good-humoured Frenchman has three horses based in Dubai, with Marin...Read More

Source: gulfnews.com · Posted 375 days ago ·

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