The Lindsay Park training trio of Ben, Will, and J D Hayes had their conviction in Hard Kick validated when the three-year-old returned to winning form at Caulfield.
Having won on debut down the Flemington straight in February, Hard Kick was sent out as the favourite in his comeback run down the Flemington straight last month, only to cross the line in sixth.
Ben Hayes conceded that he and his brothers were disappointed by that showing but decided to return Hard Kick to the jump-outs and incorporate a tongue tie into his equipment.
The strategy paid off handsomely, as Hard Kick led from start to finish to win 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) finishing a length adrift in third. Those interested in betting sites and apps had plenty of value to explore with the favourite faltering.
The Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington, held on the opening day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, is a clear objective for the Lindsay Park stable.
Hayes indicated that the stable would have no reservations about taking Hard Kick back to the Flemington straight and nominated the Group 3 Poseidon Stakes (1100m) on September 12 as a potential next race.
“We were very flat after his first-up run,” Hayes revealed.
“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.”
For those keen to place a wager, explore the available betting markets for the race at your preferred sports betting platforms.