Marsha has date with Galileo after record sale

Marsha, left, pipped Lady Aurelia in the Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes despite Frankie Dettori thinking his filly had won. Picture: Racingfotos.com

Champions Series star Marsha became the highest-priced horse sold at a European auction when making six million guineas at Tattersalls December Mare Sale on Tuesday.

This year’s dramatic Coolmore Nunthorpe winner, trained by Sir Mark Prescott, was bought by MV Magnier, son of Coolmore Stud’s John Magnier, for a new partnership.

Magnier had the final nod for the four-year-old after a head-to-battle with John Gosden, who was bidding for Godolphin.

“She really is something special,” said Magnier. “Sir Mark has done a great job with her, she was very fast and the lads were very keen to have her. She is the best sprinter of the year and she will go to Galileo.”

For Dan Downie, racing manager of owners Elite Racing Club, it was the end of long day.
He said: “I feel exhausted, but, no, it is exciting, and it is a wonderful for Elite.

“We did have a price at which we would have taken her home, but we did think it was going to be unlikely. She has been wonderful and always takes everything in her stride.

“The funds will help with ongoing and long-term running of the Club, but we will, of course, take a look at our nomination plans, in particular for Marsha’s dam, Marlinka.”

Marsha had won the Prix de l’Abbaye before making her mark in this year’s QIPCO British Champions Series. Before her win at York, she finished third in the King’s Stand at Royal Ascot.