Mr Brightside, representing Lindsay Park, failed to meet expectations in the Champions Mile at Sha Tin, finishing last in the field.

Despite the disappointing result, trainers Ben, Will, and JD Hayes remain optimistic about the horse’s future.

“The stable is clearly disappointed,” Ben Hayes said, noting the horse’s fierceness behind the field.

JD Hayes added, “When he wasn’t going to be running into contention, Craig (Williams) looked after him a bit, which did stretch the margin.”

However, both trainers assured there were no serious concerns regarding the horse’s welfare. “He seemed fine after the race,” Ben said, noting that Mr Brightside would likely be vetted the following morning, though nothing seemed alarming.

“It was well worth the experience though,” Ben added, focusing on the positives.

Meanwhile, the Champions Mile victory went to longshot Red Lion, who survived a protest to defeat favourite Voyage Bubble, who started at $1.40.