Hong Kong-based owner Edmund Lee has had Group 1 success with Lindsay Park, think dual Australian Cup winner Harlem and successive Newmarket Handicap victor Redkirk Warrior.
That was when David Hayes was at the helm, but with Lindsay Park now in the care of Ben and JD Hayes, Lee has entrusted them with producing, hopefully, another Group 1 winner.
Irish-bred import Barretta is the latest Lee-owned galloper to step out for Lindsay Park and will be having his third start for the stable in the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour Handicap (1600m) at Flemington on Saturday.
Barretta was successful at Pakenham on March 31 before producing a below-par performance when sixth to Uncle Bryn at Sale on April 15.
But Ben Hayes said there were excuses that day.
“We were a little disappointed with his second-up run, but in hindsight we probably rode him a bit wrong, a bit close after a big first-up win,” Hayes said.
“He also had a big blow with the rider saying he got his tongue over the bit.
“We’ve put a tongue on him, we’re going to ride him differently and I think he’s a horse that can really turn around his form.”
Asked if there were any spring aspirations for Barretta, Hayes played a straight bat.
But at the same time, Hayes said the horse had his fair share of ability.
“I’ll tell you after Saturday,” Hayes said of any spring goals.
Hayes said Barretta was purchased by Lee and sent to Lindsay Park after winning on debut in Ireland.
“He wants another Harlem or a Redkirk Warrior, but the way he’s going I think he’s more Harlem,” Hayes said.
“I think he’ll make a nice 2000-metre horse.
“We really like him and hopefully he shows everyone how good he is.”
