In a shift from his typical spring routine, star galloper Mr Brightside will not pursue a third consecutive victory in the P.B. Lawrence Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield.
Co-trainer Ben Hayes mentioned that the nearly seven-year-old gelding had gained 41 kilograms during his spell and would begin stepping up his training next week.
โWeโll skip the Lawrence Stakes this year to give him some extra time,โ Hayes explained.
โHeโs in good condition, which is ideal for this stage. Heโll start even time next week. Weโre very pleased with him; heโs gained good weight and looks great. Heโs a happy horse and is training exceptionally well.โ
Hayes also noted that the horse, which has earned over $13 million, would make his racing return in the Group 1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on September 7, a race he won on his second run last year.