The Lindsay Park team, comprising Ben, Will, and J D Hayes, saw their faith in Hard Kick rewarded as the three-year-old gelding returned to winning form at Caulfield.
Having won on debut down the Flemington straight in February, Hard Kick was the overwhelming favourite for his return race down the Flemington straight last month, but could only manage sixth.
Ben Hayes admitted that he and his brothers were disappointed by that run but decided to take Hard Kick back to the jump-outs and add a tongue tie to his gear.
The change proved effective, as Hard Kick led throughout and won the Group 3 Vain Stakes (1100m) on Saturday.
Ridden by Damian Lane, Hard Kick ($7) held off Organised Crime ($26) by a short neck, with Confederation ($18) a length away in third. Punters seeking competitive racing betting markets had plenty of value to consider with the favourite beaten.
The Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington on the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival is a significant target for the Lindsay Park stable.
Hayes stated that the stable would have no hesitation in returning Hard Kick to the Flemington straight and nominated the Group 3 Poseidon Stakes (1100m) on September 12 as a potential next outing.
“We were very flat after his first-up run,” Hayes said.
“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.”
Keep up with the latest developments by checking out Australian betting sites for future races.