Goldikova wins again, still on course to defend her crown in Breeders Cup Mile
DiscreetCat
Moderator
from Sporting LIfe:
Goldikova enhanced her already sky-high reputation with an imperious display to win back-to-back renewals of the Prix Rothschild at Deauville.
Freddie Head's filly, winner of the Breeders' Cup Mile last year, had not quite recaptured her best so far this season, despite winning the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket on her last start.
However, as Olivier Peslier settled the four-year-old behind pacemaker Only Green, the result never looked in question at any stage.
Taking up the running about a furlong from home, the rest were left chasing shadows as Peslier let out an inch of rein and she shot four lengths clear.
Having eased down in the last 50 yards, Elusive Wave closed into second but the French 1000 Guineas winner was never likely to get on terms.
Andre Fabre's Proviso ran on to take third but Mick Channon's Lahaleeb and Eva's Request, along with Godolphin's Lady Marian, were unplaced.
Head said: "She was right back to her best today, she was fantastic.
"We'll run her in the Prix Jacques le Marois (Deauville) in two weeks' time next.
"After that we'll follow the same plan as last year and the main goal is to go back to Santa Anita for the Breeders' Cup Mile.
"She travelled so well today, we had a lovely lead and she was just cruising the whole way.
"Olivier said she felt exactly the same as last year."
Goldikova enhanced her already sky-high reputation with an imperious display to win back-to-back renewals of the Prix Rothschild at Deauville.
Freddie Head's filly, winner of the Breeders' Cup Mile last year, had not quite recaptured her best so far this season, despite winning the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket on her last start.
However, as Olivier Peslier settled the four-year-old behind pacemaker Only Green, the result never looked in question at any stage.
Taking up the running about a furlong from home, the rest were left chasing shadows as Peslier let out an inch of rein and she shot four lengths clear.
Having eased down in the last 50 yards, Elusive Wave closed into second but the French 1000 Guineas winner was never likely to get on terms.
Andre Fabre's Proviso ran on to take third but Mick Channon's Lahaleeb and Eva's Request, along with Godolphin's Lady Marian, were unplaced.
Head said: "She was right back to her best today, she was fantastic.
"We'll run her in the Prix Jacques le Marois (Deauville) in two weeks' time next.
"After that we'll follow the same plan as last year and the main goal is to go back to Santa Anita for the Breeders' Cup Mile.
"She travelled so well today, we had a lovely lead and she was just cruising the whole way.
"Olivier said she felt exactly the same as last year."