Mr Brightside creates history on Crown Makybe Diva Stakes Day

In front of more than 9,200 patrons, Mr Brightside led the field from start to finish under jockey Craig Williams and provided trainers Ben, Will and JD Hayes with yet another win in the Group 1 event.

The field was led out by three-time Cup champion Makybe Diva. The Diva returned to Flemington and was reunited with original trainer David Hall, jockey Glen Boss and owner Tony Santic. 

It was a day which also saw Revelare book his ticket into the Lexus Melbourne Cup by winning the Group 3 Lexus Archer Stakes (2500m) for trainer Robert Hickmott and jockey Declan Bates. 

Continuing the strong Lexus Melbourne Cup theme, the VRC presented Honorary Memberships to past Cup-winning jockeys and trainers. More than 30 past winners were on track including Gai Waterhouse, Chris Waller, Sheila Laxon and Damien Oliver. 

Friends of the VRC Rebecca Harding, Sarah Ellen and Hannah Dal Sasso brought the glamour trackside for the opening Group 1 of the season at Flemington, delighting in the Fashions on the Field competition and exceptional dining in The Byerley.

The Fashions on the Field competition saw Peta Bell from Geelong crowned winner of Best Dressed and Jack Colantuono from East Melbourne win Best Suited. As part of the prize both winners received $2000 as well as a spot in the Melbourne Cup Carnival Crown Oaks Day Daily Finals on Thursday 6 November.

VRC Chief Executive Kylie Rogers said it was a fantastic way to kick start what’s set to be a huge spring.

“Mr Brightside showed his champion qualities and reminded us how exciting top quality racing can be. It sets the scene for a huge Melbourne Cup Carnival with a taste of the fashion, electric atmosphere and entertainment that our members and attendees will experience.”

The next race day at Flemington will be Spring Classics Preview Day on Sunday 21 September with racegoers able to register for a free behind-the-scenes tour of the Flemington Stables in the morning, including Lexus Melbourne Cup winners Chris Waller and Danny O’Brien.