The Easter Cup at Caulfield hasn’t delivered the same level of triumphs for the Lindsay Park team as the Victoria Handicap on the same card.
Ben, Will and JD Hayes are aiming for a third consecutive victory in the Group 3 Victoria Handicap (1400m) this Saturday courtesy of Here To Shock and Cafe Millenium, while in the Group 3 Easter Cup (2000m) they seek their initial triumph.
Lindsay Park has claimed the Easter Cup only once since 2000, thanks to Jet Away who prevailed in 2013 under David Hayes’ preparation.
The Hayes brothers boast a solid presence in the current edition with Bankers Choice and Plymouth lined up in a competitive wagering market.
Bankers Choice returns for his second start this preparation after placing third, less than two lengths behind Birdman, in the Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (1800m) at Caulfield on March 14.
This marked Bankers Choice’s initial appearance since the Caulfield Cup (2400m) in October, though the endurance runner received comprehensive preparation ahead of his comeback.
JD Hayes noted this was clear from his effort in the Peter Young Stakes.
“Enormous,” Hayes said of the run.
“It was as good a first-up run that he has had in his career I would think.
“He’s right on track for the 2000 metres and it looks right in his sweet spot.”
Bankers Choice shoulders 60kg on Saturday under Daniel Stackhouse and sits at $15 in betting.
Plymouth, who was runner-up in the Albury Cup most recently, trades at $7.50 in betting with a stronger prospect and Luke Currie aboard.
Plymouth has progressively gained condition throughout his campaign, ending fourth to Tom Kitten in the Kevin Heffernan Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield on February 7 prior to another fourth to Birdman in the Blamey Stakes (1600m) at Flemington on February 28.
“He was very good in the Albury Cup,” Hayes said.
“He was genuine and did everything right, but I think he will appreciate getting back on his Melbourne leg.”
Explore the Australian betting sites for the top racing odds ahead of the Easter Cup at Caulfield.
