Hayes has joined up with his older brother Ben to spearhead the training operation at Euroa's Lindsay Park, following in the footsteps of his grandfather Colin and father David.
The partnership, now in its second week, got on the board in race four at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
And it was certainly one to remember for the pair.
Zayydani stormed home to salute in the Listed Tattersall's Gold Crown (2137m) by almost three lengths.
Ben spoke to Racing.com from Caulfield following Zayydani's win in the $200,000 stakes race.
“That was a great thrill, even though it was all the way up at Eagle Farm,” Ben said.
“JD is back at the farm (near Euroa) and he is very happy. I am sure it’s a very big thrill for him. First winner a stakes winner, so he might have one-up on Dad there.
“I think Dad will be the proudest father ever.”
Zayydani's exploits came on the sixth day of the new partnership.
The future looks bright for the Lindsay Park runner, with Zayydani set to target some big races in the spring.
“She’s a Savabeel mare that’s really on the improve and in the spring she’ll be a five-year-old mare who could develop into a Caulfield Cup horse or, maybe, a Matriarch (Stakes) at the end of the carnival,” Ben said.
“It’s a great way to kick-off the partnership with a Listed race win and hopefully we can continue nice success like that.”
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