2011 Breeders' Cup: Goldikova Destined to Win Fourth-Straight in Cup Mile

The 2011 Breeders' Cup World Championships from Churchill Downs are set to begin Nov. 4, and one of the major storylines heading into the weekend's races is that of Goldikova, the three-time defending winner in the Breeders' Cup Mile.

Goldikova, a 6-year-old mare, won the race in 2008, 2009 and 2010, and has won the event more than any other horse in history.

Trainer Freddy Head is confident that Goldikova can take the $2 million purse again in 2011. He stated,

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"She's very well. I don't think I could have her better...I've known some good horses, too, maybe as good as her, but one that could do so much over the years. No, I've never seen one."

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Goldikova has won nearly $7 million over her career and comes into her final race with a career record of 17-6-2.

Already cemented as the greatest champion in the 26-year history of the Breeders' Cup Mile, Goldikova can add to her legendary resume on Nov. 5 by winning a fourth-consecutive Breeders' Cup Mile.

Even less likely, Goldikova will have done it as a female, topping typically faster male horses year after year.

The 2010 European Horse of the Year is the favorite to win on Saturday, and with an 18th career victory, Goldikova can and will retire as one of the greatest race horses of all-time.

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter @_Pat_Clarke