Breeders' draw no issue for Goldikova

Racing: Freddie Head played down fears about the draw for Goldikova when she goes in search of a hat-trick in the Breeders' …

Racing:Freddie Head played down fears about the draw for Goldikova when she goes in search of a hat-trick in the Breeders' Cup Mile on Saturday.

The incredible mare will start from stall 10 of the 11 runners at Churchill Downs, but as she was one place wider when victorious 12 months ago, her French handler does not see it being a problem.

"I think everything is going perfectly to plan. In fact, it's a bit like a soap opera for her with everything looking too good to be true," said Head. "She's put on weight, is a stronger filly and all the willingness she has shown through her career is still there.

"She is still fresh and doesn't seem tired or sick of racing and training. With the draw, maybe I would have liked to have been inside a bit more, but we will manage. It was the same last year and I remember winning on Miesque from a high draw."

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Regarding race tactics, Head added: "I shall leave it entirely to Olivier Peslier, but with this filly you can do more or less anything you want.

"Last time at Longchamp she led before letting another horse go by and quickening up again. It really all depends on the pace of the race."

Asked about the going at the track, the trainer continued: "I have no concerns, unless it becomes very soft. The faster the better for her.

"It's a top-class field with Paco Boy and Gio Ponti, who is a champion on turf on the US. It's a great match-up."

Paco Boy, ridden by Ryan Moore, made a first appearance on the track ahead of his latest battle with the French filly.

Richard Hannon jnr, the trainer's son and assistant, said: "He's well in his coat and has eaten up since he got here, so we're really looking forward to the race. I think there are legitimate reasons why we can beat Goldikova, as she is not drawn very well and that is in our favour."