Mr Brightside has gone back-to-back in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington, giving his trainers Ben, Will & JD Hayes another Group 1 victory early in their training careers.
Affectionately known as Mr B, the son of Bullbars has become the third horse in history to win successive Makybe Diva Stakes, joining Chiquita (1950 & 1951) and Sailor’s Guide (1956 & 1957) as the only horses to win the race multiple times.
As expected, Pride Of Jenni took up the lead and careered away to lead by over four lengths at one stage, while Antino and the eventual winner tracked up behind the mare.
Declan Bates went for the leader before the home turn, and as soon as she gave a kick, Mr Brightside started to work home nicely, passing Antino with ease by the 250m mark.
The race favourite with top horse racing bookmakers, Via Sistina, never really got into the race, leaving Mr B and Pride Of Jenni to fight out the finish as he began to wear her down late.
Mr Brightside took over in the shadows of the post and held on to claim one of his best victories of his 36-start career.
2024 Makybe Diva Stakes replay – Mr Brightside
JD Hayes spoke on behalf of the stable following the win.
“That was thrilling. What a spectacle,” Hayes said.
“Pride Of Jenni was so brave out in front as she is and our bloke had to knuckle down to the task.
“He’s a model of consistency and we’re so glad to have him.
“He’s unbelievable. He truly is unique.
“We don’t take it lightly to have a horse like him in the stable.
“To come back now as an older horse and perform like that is huge. He’s like a fine wine.
“He’s always been a point and shoot type of horse and he’s going to be super competitive (wherever he goes next).”
Regular jockey Craig Williams spoke post-race and was very complimentary of his mount.
“He’s a sensational horse,” Williams said.
“The Hayes’ have done a great job with this horse.
“Will who straps the horse told me he’s in great order.
“I was very bullish about his chances today.
“The way he felt, the way he pulled up. It was a harder slow today but he’s got that tenacity to win. He’s an amazing racehorse.
“Now he’s one of the best milers in Australia. He is an absolute delight.
“The boys even added another gear change today so they’re still working on him.”
Horse racing news
