Mr Brightside showcased immense grit and determination to secure victory in the first Group 1 race of the autumn, the CF Orr Stakes (1400m), at Caulfield on Saturday. The weight-for-age contest unfolded at a punishing pace, transforming the race into a fierce test of stamina and willpower.
Despite a sluggish start, Mr Brightside, trained by the Lindsay Park team of Ben, Will, and JD Hayes, quickly regained his stride to settle midfield, though he remained a considerable six lengths behind early leaders Pride Of Jenni and Buffalo River. The swift tempo set by the frontrunners appeared daunting, but the gelding’s resolve was unshaken.
As the field turned for home, Pride Of Jenni still held a commanding lead, with Buffalo River pressing hard in second. Mr Brightside, however, had other plans. Under the masterful guidance of jockey Craig Williams, the $1.95 favorite dug deep, his relentless spirit shining through. Inch by inch, he bridged the gap, ultimately reeling in Pride Of Jenni in the final strides to clinch a dramatic short-half-head victory. Buffalo River, a $61 outsider, finished a gallant third, only a head behind.
A New Milestone for Mr Brightside
The victory marked a significant milestone for the Lindsay Park team and Mr Brightside himself, as it was the first time the six-year-old gelding triumphed in a first-up run during an autumn campaign. JD Hayes expressed his elation at the post-race interview, praising the horse’s consistency and spirit.
“He’s such a special horse for us,” Hayes said. “This win is a big one, not just for the stable but also for him. Starting the autumn with a Group 1 victory is a fantastic boost.”
Reflecting on Mr Brightside’s maturity, Hayes noted, “He’s a seasoned campaigner now, and while his trials and jump-outs might not have turned heads, we knew he was ready. He’s just one of those horses who saves his best for race day.”
Plans for the Autumn Campaign
Looking ahead, Hayes outlined an ambitious program for Mr Brightside. He will return to Caulfield on February 24 for the Group 1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) before tackling the All-Star Mile (1600m) at the same venue on March 16. The grand finale for the campaign is expected to be the prestigious Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington two weeks later.
“It’s a big ask, but he keeps ticking all the boxes,” Hayes said. “With his current form and attitude, we’re optimistic about the weeks ahead.”
Craig Williams’ Masterful Ride
Jockey Craig Williams, who has developed a strong partnership with Mr Brightside, highlighted the challenges of the race and the gelding’s remarkable tenacity.
“Today was no easy task,” Williams admitted. “Mr Brightside can be a bit cheeky early in his preparation, and he gave us a scare when he reared at the barriers. But once the gates opened, he found his rhythm.”
Describing the intense mid-race pressure, Williams noted, “The pace was brutal. At one point, I wasn’t sure if he was traveling well enough, but his heart is incredible. When it mattered most, he found another gear. His will to win is something special.”
Williams also hinted at more improvement to come, adding, “He’s got a bit left in the tank. It’s exciting to think about what’s next for him.”
A Crowd Favorite
Mr Brightside’s victory was met with enthusiastic applause from the Caulfield crowd, many of whom had backed the favorite. As the stable’s flagship horse, he has become a fan favorite, not just for his ability but also for his fighting spirit.
With his eye firmly set on the autumn’s biggest prizes, Mr Brightside is poised to deliver more memorable performances. As JD Hayes aptly put it, “He’s a horse that never gives up, and that’s what makes him truly great.”
All eyes will now be on his return in the Futurity Stakes, where he aims to build on this remarkable victory and further cement his legacy.
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