The Hayes family is gearing up for what promises to be an emotional and competitive FWD Champions Day at Sha Tin on April 27. With the entire clan converging in Hong Kong—David Hayes and his wife Prue, joined by their three sons Ben, Will, and JD—the day is set to be more than just a racing affair. It’s a rare convergence of family and top-tier sport, with each member playing a pivotal role in what could be a defining chapter of their training legacy.
This Champions Day will mark a distinctive moment in global racing, as horses nurtured at Lindsay Park in Euroa, Victoria, line up for three prestigious Group 1 contests. David Hayes is set to send out two highly regarded gallopers: Ka Ying Rising, a powerhouse on the sprinting scene, and Rubylot, a proven stayer with a classic win under his belt. Meanwhile, his sons—co-trainers at Lindsay Park—will be relying on the star power of Mr Brightside, a nine-time Group 1 victor making his much-anticipated international debut in the Champions Mile.
Their shared history with Hong Kong racing adds a rich layer to this moment. The Hayes brothers spent formative years living in the city during their father’s successful first stint as a trainer at Sha Tin, where he twice claimed the champion trainer title. Now, as David makes a resurgent mark in the region, his sons are stepping onto the global stage alongside him, hoping to leave their own imprint.
The anticipation around Ka Ying Rising is palpable. Touted as the world’s top-rated sprinter, the four-year-old has flourished under David’s guidance, maturing into a dominant force. Originally sourced from Australia through syndicate ownership, his transfer to Hong Kong has proven immensely fruitful. Though his potential wasn’t fully realized at the time of sale, the horse’s development has exceeded all expectations, signalling that his best days may still lie ahead.
Rubylot, too, brings quality to the table, carrying with him the hopes of a strong middle-distance campaign. The fact that both these horses began their journey at Lindsay Park speaks volumes about the operation’s eye for talent and its long-standing reputation as a breeding ground for elite racehorses.
Mr Brightside, on the other hand, never left Lindsay Park and has become a household name in Australian racing. With an impressive record that includes 19 wins from 43 starts and over AU$17 million in prize money, he has consistently delivered at the highest level. His preparation has been thorough, most recently winning a jump-out at Flemington as he gears up for this critical overseas assignment. The stable remains confident that he’ll acquit himself well against formidable opposition, including notable local contender Voyage Bubble.
The logistics for the big day are just as meticulously planned. Mr Brightside has already touched down in Hong Kong and is being looked after by long-time team member Ross Wishart until Ben Hayes arrives to take over final preparations. JD and Will Hayes are expected to join the team right before race day, underscoring the family’s hands-on approach.
JD Hayes, who harbours ambitions to someday train in Hong Kong himself, brings not only a love for the game but also a bit of cultural fluency to the table, having picked up some Chinese during his earlier years in the city. Champion jockey Craig Williams has been booked to ride Mr Brightside, a pairing that adds further polish to an already strong line-up.
As the sun sets on Sha Tin this Sunday, the Hayes family will be hoping for more than just participation—they’re dreaming of triumphs that echo across borders and generations.
