Better to attribute the source once when introducing Hayes’ comments, rather than repeat it after both quotes:
Multiple Group 1-winning jockey Blake Shinn admits he is honoured to have been called up to partner Lindsay Park’s champion Mr Brightside in the G1 Makybe Diva Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on September 12.
Shinn will take over from Mr Brightside’s regular rider, Craig Williams, who will be aboard Cox Plate favourite Sir Delius.
“He’s a cult hero, really,” Shinn told Racing.com.
“It’s a real honour to get the opportunity to ride a champion like him.
“I’m thankful to the owners and the stable and am really looking forward to it.”
Remarkably, Williams has ridden Mr Brightside in 45 of his 49 starts and has won 18 races on him.
Williams has guided Mr Brightside to nine Group 1 victories, including the past three editions of the Makybe Diva Stakes.
The other four jockeys to have sat on Mr Brightside under race conditions are Opie Bosson, John Allen, Luke Currie and Zac Purton.
With Williams sidelined in the autumn of 2023 due to a broken collarbone, Currie won the All-Star Mile on the gelding, while Purton was in the saddle for Mr Brightside’s G1 Doncaster Handicap triumph.
Mr Brightside returned to the races on Saturday after close to 10 months off the scene, following minor surgery to remove a small bone chip from his left-fore fetlock.
The nine-year-old ran a blinder in the G1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield, finishing second, three lengths behind the winner Beiwacht.
Co-trainer Ben Hayes told Racing.com the stable was delighted with Mr Brightside’s return.
“He’s going to look better and better every start. He’s sound and happy and he’s showed everyone he’s still got it,” Hayes said.
“I was emotional after the race, and I didn’t expect that but he’s just such a fabulous horse.”