Star galloper Mr Brightside has officially been given the green light to travel to Hong Kong, where he will contest the prestigious Group 1 Champions Mile at Sha Tin on April 27.
The multiple Group 1 winner impressed in a recent jumpout, cementing his readiness to take on the world’s best milers.
“He’s pulled up beautifully and showed us everything we needed to see,” said Ben Hayes, one of the trio of trainers at Lindsay Park. “We’re incredibly proud of what he’s achieved here in Australia, and now it’s time to see what he can do internationally.”
Mr Brightside’s trip will mark another milestone in an already glittering career, which includes victories in the Doncaster Mile, the Makybe Diva Stakes, and the All-Star Mile.
“He’s one of the most consistent horses I’ve ever seen,” Hayes added. “He turns up every time, gives his all, and just loves the mile trip. We’re confident he’ll be competitive in Hong Kong.”
Joining him on the Hong Kong mission is Royal Patronage, trained by Adrian Bott, who will be saddling up his first international runner.
“This is a huge moment for our stable,” said Bott. “To have a horse like Royal Patronage alongside Mr Brightside on this global stage is a testament to how far Australian racing has come.”
The Champions Mile is a marquee event in Hong Kong, drawing elite competition from across Asia and beyond. For Mr Brightside’s connections, it’s not just about competing—it’s about representing Australian racing with pride.
“There’s a lot of excitement around this,” said Hayes. “To be part of an event of this magnitude is special. Mr Brightside has earned his shot, and we think he can do something pretty special over there.”
Racing fans around the country will be watching closely as Mr Brightside looks to conquer new territory and add yet another chapter to his remarkable story.
