Australian superstar Mr Brightside has taken to Hong Kong like a seasoned traveler as he prepares to tackle the prestigious Group 1 Champions Mile at Sha Tin this Sunday.
The nine-time Group 1 winner arrived safely and has wasted no time adjusting to his new surroundings, according to co-trainer Ben Hayes, who is on the ground overseeing the campaign.
“He’s travelled over really well,” Hayes said to Racing.com. “He’s eating up, he’s bright in the coat, and he’s taken everything in stride — just like the professional he is.”
Mr Brightside will be representing the Lindsay Park stable on the international stage, a milestone Hayes is proud of.
“It’s a big deal for our team to have a runner at this level overseas,” he said. “He deserves his shot — he’s earned it with his consistency and class back home.”
The team is quietly confident, especially with rain in the forecast — a potential edge for Mr Brightside.
“We actually wouldn’t mind a bit of rain,” Hayes explained. “He handles softer tracks really well, so that might play to our advantage come race day.”
Known for his fierce will to win and powerful late finishes, Mr Brightside has been one of Australia’s standout milers over the past two seasons. The Champions Mile offers a new test, but Hayes believes the horse is ready.
“He always gives us everything he’s got,” Hayes said. “He’s spot on, and we’re excited to see how he measures up against some of the best milers in the world.”
The Champions Mile is one of three elite Group 1 events set to headline Champions Day at Sha Tin and will be broadcast live on Racing.com at 6pm AEST this Sunday.
“It’s an honour to be part of a race like this,” Hayes added. “We’re not just here to make up the numbers — we’re here to compete.”
