Trainer Ben Hayes says Mr Brightside could be headed to the King Charles III Stakes if they opt not to chase a Cox Plate after he “cemented himself as a champion” by claiming his third Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington, registering his 10th Group 1 success.
Hayes said all options remained on the table for the gelding, including the Cox Plate, although his record at a mile may see him kept to that distance range.
“His mile record is amazing. We have to talk about it [The Cox Plate] as he’s still in the noms. It’s still an option and I’ll have to talk to my brothers, Will and JD, and do what we believe is the best result for him,” he said.
“The Feehan is probably the logical race, if not he might have a trial and go to the King Charles III.”
Hayes hailed Craig Williams’ ride as faultless after the six-year-old controlled the tempo in the small field and held his rivals at bay.
“It turned out beautifully,” Hayes said.
Makybe Diva Stakes | Mr Brightside
MR BRIGHTSIDE, BACK TO BACK TO BACK! One of the all-time great milers wins the Makybe Diva Stakes for the third consecutive year & does it in a procession 💫
📺 Ch. 78/68, Foxtel 529, Kayo or via our app
REPLAYS: https://t.co/ZIa4a02wC0 pic.twitter.com/hSs81THiFf— Racing.com (@Racing) September 13, 2025
“It was a 10-out-of-10 ride. Tactically he got an easy time early and because he got an easy time, they couldn’t catch him. To win three Makybe Divas and make it 10 Group 1s, he’s an amazing horse and we’re so lucky to have him.”
Mr Brightside’s condition also pleased Hayes, who said there was still improvement to come through the spring.
“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,” Hayes said.
“For JD, Will and I, he’s the most special horse we’ve ever had. We’re just the front men, but for Ross (track rider) and Will (strapper), he means a lot to everyone and the whole team.”
From a modest background to becoming a multiple Group 1 star, Mr Brightside’s record now reads 11 wins at the elite level and Hayes believes wider recognition is overdue.
“He’s technically an 11-time Group 1 winner and he’s placed in 12 as well,” Hayes said. “He’s an absolute champion, no one can deny that now, and maybe people will start respecting him, and tipping him.”
