Horse Racing News Update: Hayes Brothers Celebrate Wins at Sandown

In the latest news from the horse racing world, the Hayes brothers, trainers at the renowned Lindsay Park establishment, found success at the Sandown racecourse. Just days after welcoming a new addition to their family, Ben, Will, and J.D. Hayes were in the winner’s circle after Luna Cat’s triumph in the Sportsbet Photo Finish Refund Handicap (1000m) on Wednesday.

“Will became a father to a little boy, sometime late Sunday night or Monday morning,” revealed Ben Hayes, the eldest of the three brothers, as he waited for Luna Cat to return after the race.

The win of Luna Cat has made the Lindsay Park trainers instant fans of the newly introduced benchmark 74 races by Racing Victoria. Luna Cat carried top weight of 61kg in her victory, a significant 3.5kg increase from her first-up sixth-place finish in a benchmark 78 race at Caulfield on June 1.

“When you have those 70 to 78 rated horses, it’s an awkward rating, but when you have a 74 race, like today, you can run as the topweight and not be too penalised,” Hayes said, expressing his appreciation for the new benchmark races.

Ridden by Luke Currie, Luna Cat ($14) secured a long head win over Kiko ($4) and I Choose You ($11) in the 1000m event. This victory marks Luna Cat’s fifth win in 24 starts, as the trainers continue their search for the mare’s maiden city win, which they believe may be achievable during the winter months.

“She’s a pretty unique type of horse,” Hayes said. “She’s got a turn of foot, so I was a bit worried when she was held up, but she took the gap and was too strong to the line.”

The success of the Hayes brothers at Sandown showcases the depth of talent within the Lindsay Park stable and their ability to adapt to the evolving racing landscape. As the winter season approaches, fans of the sport can look forward to more thrilling updates from this accomplished training trio.

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