Bold start: Hayes’ Blue Diamond dream is inching closer to reality, but the path is crowded and risky. And this is where the stakes really heat up in the run-up to Caulfield’s Group 1 feature.
The Lindsay Park squad is prepared to back up to four juveniles for Saturday’s Blue Diamond Stakes, following Hard Kick’s convincing Flemington debut win. Co-trainer Ben Hayes noted that the final lineup depends on how the All Too Hard colt pulls up, with possibilities including Torture, Eurocanto, and potentially Jacaranda racing for a share of the $2 million prize.
Jacaranda: “I hope she does (get in),” Hayes commented on Home Affairs’ filly. “Her run in the Millenium was solid—she finished well. Right now she appears to be an emergency, and an alternative would be to head to Flemington a week later.”
Hard Kick: “If he pulls up well and shows no issues through the week, we’ll pay the $55,000 late entry fee.” Hayes added that the race appears open this year, with no obvious standout. “I might be biased, but that second-year-old win could be among the best of the season. He’s tough, sound, and capable of a strong effort.”
Torture: “We’re very happy with her after returning from New Zealand. She trialed with blinkers yesterday and looked sharp; we’re confident she’ll run very well.”
Eurocanto: “He pulled up fine after Blue Diamond Prelude sixth,” Hayes explained. “We were disappointed by his racing manners—too aggressive and let himself down. We’ll train him on Monday, and if he shows the right signs in work, we might take the risk.”
Thought-provoking note: The potential four-strong assault tests the team’s depth versus the likelihood of securing a full quartet in a race where spots are limited. Do you think four entrants from one yard is a wise risk, or should the focus be on maximizing quality over quantity? Share your take in the comments.
