History was made at Flemington as Mr Brightside claimed a third straight Makybe Diva Stakes, becoming the first male horse to complete the hat-trick. The Lindsay Park champion also notched his tenth Group 1 victory in the process, solidifying his reputation as one of Australia’s finest modern-day milers.

Craig Williams executed a flawless front-running ride on the $5 chance, controlling the tempo before kicking clear in the straight. Aeliana ($5) chased gamely for second, while Via Sistina ($1.80 fav) was a further neck away in third.

By repeating his Flemington heroics, Mr Brightside now sits among legends such as Makybe Diva, Black Caviar, Tranquil Star and Wakeful, who each strung together three consecutive Group 1s in their own eras.

Ben Hayes, speaking on behalf of brothers Will and JD, praised the gelding’s consistency and the perfect ride. “To win three Makybe Diva’s and make it 10 Group 1’s, he’s an amazing horse and we’re so lucky to have him,” Hayes said. “He paraded beautifully, it was typical Mr B. His coat has come on, but the good thing is, he’s got improvement to come and we’re going to have fun placing him at his next couple of starts.”

Since joining the Hayes brothers in 2021, Mr Brightside has been the stable’s flagbearer, adding multiple Group 2s and the All-Star Mile to a glittering CV. Hayes noted his record over a mile makes sticking to the 1600m path the most logical spring option.

“He’s still in the noms for the Cox Plate but we’ll have to do what’s best for him,” Hayes said. “The Feehan is a possibility, or he might have a trial and then head to the King Charles III in Sydney.”