Proxima Dea's determination secures narrow Rosehill victory
With remarkable grit, Proxima Dea managed to lead throughout the Elite Sand And Soil Handicap (1400m), repelling the determined challenge of Defensemen to clinch a slender win.
Despite starting as the rank outsider at $51, Proxima Dea's fighting victory came as no surprise to trainer David Payne.
"I think she's going to make a good horse, she's my Oaks filly for the spring,'' Payne revealed. "The plan was to lead today and make them try and run her down. She's tough and she will stay – her stamina kicked in when the other horse came at her."
Under Reece Jones, Proxima Dea ($51) faced significant pressure when Defensemen ($4.60) drew alongside and briefly took the lead mid-straight. However, the filly responded strongly on the inside to secure a well-deserved triumph. Woodenbridge ($8.50) experienced interference entering the straight and recovered well for third, two-and-a-half lengths behind, while favourite Rumdabar ($3.10) faltered on the heavy track, finishing fifth.
Jones highlighted Proxima Dea's refusal to be beaten as Defensemen made his move.
"She fought hard and really wanted to win,'' Jones told Payne. "She's only going to be better for the experience, too."
The daughter of Tarzino, out of Invisible Coin, is bred for distance, mirroring her full sister, 2022 Queensland Oaks winner Gypsy Goddess.
While Payne operates a compact stable at Rosehill, the accomplished trainer consistently has talented horses, and he may have unearthed three burgeoning stars in Proxima Dea, Krasina, and the promising sprinter Bangkok Hottie.
"I will have a think about what we do with Proxima Dea but ultimately she's out Oaks filly,'' Payne commented. "Bangkok Hottie is back in work and we will aim her at the Princess Series (Silver Shadow Stakes, Furious Stakes, Tea Rose Stakes and Flight Stakes) in the spring. "And don't forget about Krasina, she's another very talented filly. It's nice to have some good ones going into the new season."
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