Jockey Ethan Brown is eager to secure another Group 1 victory as he takes the reins on Mornington Glory in the upcoming Black Caviar Lightning Stakes (1000m) at Flemington.
Brown, who has claimed six Group 1 titles since May 2022, is excited to reunite with Mornington Glory for Saturday’s high-stakes sprint. The duo previously triumphed in the Moir Stakes (1000m) at Moonee Valley last September.
While the Lightning Stakes presents a fresh challenge, Brown acknowledges the strong field featuring competitors like Switzerland, Traffic Warden, Growing Empire, Benedetta, and I Am Me. However, he remains confident in his mount’s abilities.
“We’re stepping into a really competitive Group 1 first-up,” Brown said. “He’s in fantastic shape, and his trial on Monday was very much an on-the-bridle effort.
“I expect him to perform strongly. I’m not heading in with expectations of winning, but he’ll definitely put in an impressive run.
“I think a few people will be surprised by how well he’s tracking.”
Mornington Glory began his racing career under Matt Laurie, securing a maiden victory at Bendigo before trainer Gavin Bedggood took over his training in 2023. Under Bedggood’s guidance, the gelding advanced from a benchmark 64 win at Geelong in October 2023 to a third-place finish in the Oakleigh Plate (1100m) at Caulfield last February before claiming the Moir Stakes.
Despite Mornington Glory’s notable success at Moonee Valley, where he has claimed four wins, he has also demonstrated his capabilities with a victory over Flemington’s 1000m straight track.
Brown believes his mount is equally proficient on both curved and straight tracks.
“I just think he’s a quality horse,” Bedggood said. “I don’t think track shape makes much of a difference to him.
“The straight course should work in his favor with the strong pace expected in the race. He’ll be able to settle in, find cover, and gradually build momentum.
“I don’t see the straight being a problem for him at all.”
The final field and barrier draw for the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes will be confirmed on Wednesday, with 13 horses currently nominated for the event.
