Star apprentice Bailey Wheeler returns to the Wagga Wagga Gold Cup carnival this weeke, looking to replicate the career-defining success he tasted at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club just 12 months ago. In 2025, Wheeler announced himself on the big stage with a masterful front-running ride aboard the Mack Griffith-trained Compelling Truth to claim the $200,000 Wagga Town Plate (1200m). That victory was the highlight of his breakout season and cemented his reputation as one of the country's elite young riders.

This year, Wheeler’s return carries even more weight as he continues his "redemption tour" under the guidance of Brisbane trainers Peter and Will Hulbert. After a highly publicized period on the sidelines and a fresh start in Queensland, he heads to Wagga with significant momentum following a dominant three-length win at Gatton last Sunday aboard Encrypted Feeling.