Lindsay Park is rarely short of a cult hero, and Touchdown is shaping as the Hayes family’s next fan favourite as he lines up for a fourth straight win at Flemington on Saturday.
The four-year-old gelding is an odds-on favourite for the $130,000 Honouring Our Jockeys Plate, the second race on the program.
It will be Touchdown’s first attempt at 2000 metres after posting a winning hat-trick on the Caulfield Heath track.
Will Hayes understands why the son of Almanzor has quickly captured the imagination.
“A good name and a picket fence often gets you a cult following,” Hayes said.
“He’s very well-liked by the punters and he’s an incredibly consistent galloper.
“This preparation, you could mount a case that he should be unbeaten, so he’s very consistent and looks to be quite progressive.”
Like Mr Brightside, Touchdown began his career in New Zealand before joining Lindsay Park following a strong trial at Taupo.
After an encouraging first campaign, he has continued to progress this preparation.
“He thrives at the property at Euroa, he’s a country boy, and he just gets out in the water walker and the day paddock,” Hayes said.
“He’s maintained a very long preparation and he’s still bucking his brands off.”
Luke Currie resumes the ride from barrier six in the 10-horse field.