Divine inspiration

Love Divine heads for victory

Favourite Love Divine made it a magnificent seven for trainer Henry Cecil in the Vodafone Oaks.

The filly named after the well-known hymn excelled in her biggest test as she took care of 16 rivals in Friday's £333,000 Epsom Classic.

It was the fourth time Cecil has won the premier fillies' contest in the last five years - and there were three earlier successes for the trainer in his distinguished career.

In contrast it was only a second Classic win for Richard Quinn, who became Cecil's stable jockey at the beginning of this season.

I felt she had a good chance today and I'm just delighted that she's proved it

Henry Cecil

Quinn, winner of the 1990 St Leger aboard Snurge, said: "Henry is a genius.

"They have him down as rose-grower but he can't half train a racehorse."

Love Divine, the 9-4 favourite, was given an impeccable ride by Quinn.

In a slow-run race he kept her in close touch behind the pacesetters Lady Upstage and Clipper.

Love Divine was sent to the front with two furlongs to travel and despite idling saw off the threat of Kalypso Katie to score by two lengths.

Lung ailment

The Godolphin hope Melikah stayed on strongly to finish a neck further back in third with Petrushka fourth.

"It's a good feeling to win today," said 38-year-old Quinn.

"I had faith in the filly but it wasn't a true-run race and it was important to have her prominent.

"The boss has always told me she's a good filly and I'm very fortunate to steer her round."

Love Divine, second in her only run as a juvenile, had been in danger of missing the race after being struck down by the lung ailment that afflicted many of Cecil's string including the Derby favourite Beat Hollow.

"She was one of the first to be hit by the bug and as this was only her third race we probably haven't seen the best of her yet," said Cecil.

"I felt she had a good chance today and I'm just delighted that she's proved it."