Europe: Latice takes French Oaks

Latice overcame a difficultdraw to win the Group 1 classic Prix de Diane at Chantilly to extend her perfect record to 4 for 4.

Latice, the 9-5 favorite, broke from post 17 in a field of 17 fillies in the $605,000 French Oaks and was still 15th entering the three-furlong stretch. Despite drifting in at the furlong pole, she rallied under Christophe Soumillon to lead 150 yards from the line and defeat Millionaia by three quarters of a length with the Gary Stevens-ridden Grey Lilas third, another half length back.

A winner over colts in the Group 3 Prix de Conde in October, Latice had begun her season with a victory against fillies in the Group 3 Prix Vanteaux. Trainer Jean-Marie Beguigne said her ultimate objective this year would be the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on Oct. 3.