The Lindsay Park training operation, managed by Ben, Will, and J D Hayes, saw their confidence in Hard Kick rewarded when the three-year-old gelding rediscovered winning form at Caulfield.
After an initial victory down the Flemington straight in February, Hard Kick, who started as the favourite in his comeback run at Flemington last month, could only manage sixth place.
Ben Hayes confessed that he and his brothers were disappointed with that performance but decided to send Hard Kick back to the jump-outs and introduce a tongue tie to his equipment.
This change proved highly effective, as Hard Kick took the lead from the outset and secured a victory in the Group 3 Vain Stakes (1100m) on Saturday.
Ridden by Damian Lane, Hard Kick, priced at $7, narrowly defeated Organised Crime ($26) by a short neck, with Confederation ($18) finishing a length further back in third. For those seeking the best horse racing betting apps, there was considerable value available with the favourite faltering.
The stable is now firmly focused on the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington on the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Hayes indicated that the stable would not hesitate to race Hard Kick back down the Flemington straight and suggested the Group 3 Poseidon Stakes (1100m) on September 12 as a potential next start.
“We were very flat after his first-up run,” Hayes stated.
“He got a big bump, he over-raced and everything didn’t work out, so to come out, second-up and win a Group 3, to relax and do everything right, it’s a big thrill.
“We wouldn’t hesitate trying him back down the straight, but there are plenty of options.
“We had high expectations first-up and he just got it wrong first-up.
“Out the back he was too fresh, he sweated up when he paraded and even today, he was still on his toes, but he wasn’t sweating and in a better mood.
“We took our time, took him back to the trials and made the little gear change.
“These are some of the more satisfying wins that you can have.
“We think he’s got a very good future, and we can’t wait for the rest of his prep.”
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