Mr Brightside back but Hong Kong beckons

Mr Brightside has had his first public workout of 2025, with Lindsay Park outlining the initial three races of his autumn campaign before deciding on potential international travel.

The seven-year-old gelding shows no signs of slowing down and is set to kick off his campaign in the Group 1 C F Orr Stakes (1400m) on February 8. He will then progress to the Group 1 Futurity Stakes (1400m) and the Group 1 All Star Mile (1600m), all races he has previously claimed victory in.

Trainer Ben Hayes, who works in partnership with his brothers JD and Will, indicated that Mr Brightside has little left to prove in Australia. The Group 1 Hong Kong Champions Mile (1600m) on April 27 is firmly in their sights.

“He’s got three definite runs here, and then we might consider heading to Sydney for the George Ryder, which could lead into Hong Kong, or we stick with the three runs here and go straight to Hong Kong,” Hayes explained.

“I think it’s the right time. He’s achieved everything he can in Australia and doesn’t have much left to prove.”

Last Friday, Mr Brightside had an 800m jump-out at Werribee, finishing third under apprentice Jaylah Kennedy without being pushed. Hayes described it as the ideal start to his preparation.

“He was fantastic. For a first jump-out, it was very good. Jaylah Kennedy gave him a perfect ride, bringing him to the middle of the track, and his work through the line was excellent. It’s exactly what we wanted, so we’re thrilled with his progress,” Hayes said.

“He looks amazing. He’ll have another jump-out at Geelong before going first-up into the Orr. Compared to his previous preparations, this might be the best first jump-out he’s had.”

Hayes also confirmed that Mr Brightside had already received vaccinations for his potential trip to Hong Kong and had shown no negative reactions.

“I prefer to do the vaccinations during a spell. Every horse reacts differently—some not at all—and so far, it seems he hasn’t been affected,” Hayes noted.

“With his eight Group 1 wins and plenty of high-class victories, I think this is the perfect time of year to take him to Hong Kong.”