Hayden Black, a long-time foreman for Shane Nichols, could be thrust into the Group 1 spotlight as a newly minted co-trainer less than two weeks into his new role.
Black has been a valued member of Nichols’ Mornington stable since 2018 and has been key to the yard’s success.
“We’ve been talking about a partnership for a couple of years, so it’s exciting to be officially starting now,” Black said.
The first runners under the new partnership are expected to step out in the coming days, ahead of having a potential Group 1 starter in unbeaten filly Esha, a daughter of Nichols' richly talented mare I Am A Star.
Esha is under consideration for a start in the Moir Stakes at Moonee Valley on September 6 after making a winning return over the course and distance on August 9.
The three-year-old filly occupies the third line of Moir betting as an $8 chance.