Lindsay Park Attempts Audacious Double

The Hayes Brothers’ Lindsay Park stable is gearing up for an ambitious New Zealand double, starting with Hello Romeo’s run at Ellerslie this Saturday. This promising colt, trained by Ben, Will, and JD Hayes, returns to the Tasman stage for a shot at the $1 million TAB Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m). Meanwhile, his older stablemate Evaporate is being prepared for the $3.5 million NZB Kiwi Stakes (1500m) on Champions’ Day, March 8. Ben Hayes expressed excitement about the opportunity, saying, “Hello Romeo has raced well in Victoria and handled his work and travel exceptionally. We’re thrilled with his preparation and look forward to what he can do at Ellerslie.” Bred by Jomara Bloodstock and purchased for $150,000 at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sale, Hello Romeo is out of the Shooting To Win mare Julieta, an unraced half-sister to three-time Group One winner Humidor. Described by Hayes as a “big, strong type” from Hello Youmzain’s first crop, Hello Romeo showed early promise with a second-place finish on debut at Bendigo, followed by a win over the same course. After a short spell, he returned with a strong jump-out at Flemington, making him a prime contender for Saturday’s race. “He has a high cruising speed and naturally positions himself on pace, which suits Ellerslie’s track well,” said Hayes. Matthew Cartwright will take the reins for the race. Evaporate, a seasoned performer, has been in excellent form since returning to work. A four-time winner from ten starts, including the Group 2 Stutt Stakes, he also placed second in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas. Purchased for A$330,000 at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, he was spelled following the Cox Plate and is now preparing for his Champions’ Day target. Hayes confirmed Evaporate would trial on Friday before contesting either the CS Hayes Stakes or the Autumn Stakes as a lead-up race. Both horses exemplify the Hayes team’s strategy of targeting premier events with well-prepared contenders.

Hello Romeo will contest the Karaka Millions 2YO (pic: Brett Holbut – Racing Photos)