Champion trainer Chris Waller is steering clear of the ongoing discussion surrounding whether the Victoria Derby should have its distance reduced.

Waller, who has already captured three editions of the Victoria Derby (2500m), will saddle both Providence and Savisanta in this year’s running at Flemington on Saturday.

The suggestion to shorten the race from 2500m to 2000m surfaced again at Flemington’s Breakfast With The Stars, with Gai Waterhouse strongly opposing any alteration.

Waller has previously worked the staying route to success with Preferment (2014), Manzoice (2022) and Riff Rocket (2023) and is again seeking victory with lightly raced colts.

Providence has a notable pedigree link to Preferment, being out of Southbank, who was placed in the Thousand Guineas, and Southbank herself is from Rezoned, a full sister to Preferment.

Preferment placed in the Geelong Classic (2200m) before his Derby triumph, while Providence heads to the Classic following a strong closing second in the Vase (2040m) at The Valley.

“Providence is by Wootton Basset that is a great international stallion that leaves winners over all distances, so that gives us a bit of confidence that he’ll get 2500 metres,” Waller said.

“He certainly hit the line strongly last Saturday, so he’s a great chance.

“We thought he might have been a bit sharper earlier in the prep and subsequently it’s a bit of a rush now and we’re backing him up in only seven days, but it’s worked before, we’ve won a Derby off a seven-day turnaround.

“He’s come through the race really well. He’s a colt, so he’s got some natural strength and hormones. He’s got a great nature, he relaxes well, so he’ll give himself every chance.”

Waller noted similarities in frame and development between Preferment and Providence, adding both possess the athletic qualities typical of Derby stayers.

His second runner, Savisanta, arrives on the back of a third in the Geelong Classic after consistent provincial form.

“He’s coming off a similar preparation to what Preferment had,” Waller said.

“He’s by Savabeel, Preferment was by Zabeel, so there’s some relationship there.

“The Derby is a unique race. They have to be fit and well prepared, and stamina is the key.”

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