Nicole's Dream best in Mamzelle

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Just like last year, Nicole's Dream used her exceptional speed to gain the upper hand in the .

Only this time, there was no late fight developing. Nicole's Dream, the prototype of a filly-mare turf sprinter, led from the very first step under Eddie Martin Jr. when prevailing by a relatively comfortable 1 1/4 lengths in the $112,100 Mamzelle on the Thursday before the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

Last year, Nicole's Dream also led throughout but before holding on desperately to capture the Mamzelle by a nose. Owned by Dare to Dream Stable, Nicole's Dream, a Florida-bred 5-year-old by Northern Trend, returned $7.80 as second choice in a field of eight. The victory was her 12th from 21 lifetime turf starts.

Mocha Queen finished second, a half-length before Singit. Anna Em, the 5-2 favorite, chased the pace before fading to sixth.

* Earlier Thursday, Ebony Breeze ($10.80) glided past heavily favored Lady Tak in midstretch to win a $58,930 allowance sprint. The victory was the second of three on the day for jockey Jerry Bailey.

Lady Tak, the 3-10 choice, took command entering the stretch but had no response when fading to third, beaten eight lengths, in a field of five fillies and mares.