Provence Claims Victory for Stephen Marsh at Ellerslie

Trainer Stephen Marsh began his Boxing Day with a successful outing at Ellerslie, as Provence, a 5-year-old mare, clinched victory in the Westbury Stud Royal Descent Stakes (1400m). The decision of Marsh to target this race instead of the more challenging Stella Artois Championship Final (1500m) later in the day paid off giving him a well-deserved win.

Stephen Marsh, known for his light-hearted nature, had joked earlier in the day that he was still waiting for his Christmas presents. However, Provence’s win quickly filled that void and brought Marsh the victory he had hoped for.

Stephen Marsh had considered the Stella Artois Championship Final for Provence but ultimately chose the Royal Descent Stakes after weighing the options. The Championship Final would have required Provence to carry 60kg, a weight significantly heavier than the 55kg she ran within the Royal Descent Stakes. The outside draw in that race also added an extra challenge, so Marsh opted for the better weight and an inside gate at Ellerslie, a decision that proved successful.

“The Stella Artois Championship Final looked like an easier race on paper, but with 60kg, an outside draw, and the aim to back her up six days later in the Rich Hill Mile, we felt this was the right option,” said Stephen Marsh after the race. “She had 55kg and a good draw here, which made all the difference.”

Jockey Sam Spratt played a key role in Provence’s victory at Ellerslie. With an advantageous barrier draw, Spratt positioned Provence just off the pace, allowing her to conserve energy while avoiding the pressure of fighting for the lead. Several of Provence’s main competitors, including favorite Malt Time, were slow to jump, which allowed Provence to take a significant lead early on.

As the race approached the final stretch, Spratt moved Provence into position to challenge for the lead. The mare responded well, moving past pacemaker Acquarello to take control. Although Malt Time finished strongly and secured third, Provence crossed the line just over a length ahead of Acquarello.

Spratt’s confident and well-timed ride, combined with Provence’s steady performance, highlighted the wisdom behind Marsh’s race selection.

After the race at Ellerslie, Stephen Marsh expressed confidence in Provence’s potential, particularly looking ahead to the Group 2 Rich Hill Mile on New Year’s Day. “She is a really good mare who has had some bad luck in the past,” said Marsh. “She has faced tough draws and challenges, but she has shown today that she can compete at the top level.”

Provence’s win in the Royal Descent Stakes gives her momentum heading into the Rich Hill Mile. Marsh believes she has the talent to perform well in the upcoming Group 2 race, which will be another opportunity for the mare to prove herself on a larger stage.

“We’re really optimistic about her chances,” Marsh added. “She has the qualities to win big races, and we’re looking forward to seeing how she handles the step up.”

Provence is bred by Tony Rider and co-owned by a large group from the Social Racing Ellerslie Winners Circle Syndicate. She is out of the Flying Spur mare Sombrueil and is the older sister of the promising 3-year-old filly Damask Rose. With a pedigree like hers, Provence has always had the potential to achieve big things, and her recent performances suggest she is just starting to show her full capabilities.

The mare has now won four of her 12 starts, with her prize money totaling just over $169,000. With the confidence Stephen Marsh has in her and the form she has shown, Provence could continue to build on this success as she enters the new year.

Provence’s victory in the Westbury Stud Royal Descent Stakes at Ellerslie on Boxing Day marked a significant achievement for both the mare and her connections. The strategic decision to race in this event rather than the Stella Artois Championship Final paid off and the win sets Provence up for a promising campaign ahead. With Marsh’s careful planning and Spratt’s expert riding, the mare is well-positioned for future success, particularly in the upcoming Rich Hill Mile.

As the mare continues to develop and gain experience, her future looks bright, and Provence is certainly a horse to watch as she aims for even greater achievements in 2024.