Bailey Wheeler has some unfinished business in town.
While there is no doubt that Cejay Graham thoroughly deserved the Brisbane Apprentice Jockey Premiership for the 2023/24 racing season for her polished, professional performance both on and off the track, Wheeler was a contender for that title until he was derailed by his own indiscretions … not once, but several times … which saw any chance of him landing another premiership, after taking out both the Gold Coast Jockeys’ and Gold Coast Apprentice Jockeys’ Premiership the previous season, disappear without much more than a whimper.
Like many young riders who have strayed off the mark before, Wheeler’s talent in the saddle in not in question, and when that is fully in play, he is a formidable force in the riding ranks so the future is very much open to him.
“Yeah, I do feel there is unfinished business. I made plenty of mistakes last time, but I think this year is going to be a good season,” said Wheeler who is currently attached to the stable of multiple Premiership winning trainer Robert Heathcote.
“Rob (Heathcote) and I get on well. We speak regularly. He allows me to go and ride outside work and do things like that.
“I do feel I’ve made a good change in myself. The claim is starting to wear out now which is the only little problem, but as long as I keep working hard … and work towards making things work … I’m sure it will be ok.
“I know I’ve just got to keep turning up and doing the right thing … keep on the straight and narrow, keep it smooth, keep it rolling … but I do think I’m in for a big season. I think I’ve come back riding well.”
Wheeler rode three winners in his first three meetings of the new season, scoring for trainer Sally Taylor on Shamaton, an $18 chance at Coffs Harbour on Friday, before notching up a double at the Sunshine Coast on Sunday aboard the Stuart Kendrick trained Vetta Velocita ($6) and Teesandcees Apply ($12) for the Robert Heathcote stable.
Those results highlighted the fact that Wheeler has been something of a ‘value jockey’ in this opening salvo of the new season. His sixteen rides over the three meetings also underlines the current demand for his services … and his 18.75 percent winning strike rate will only further have boosted Wheeler’s natural confidence.
It’s a great start to the season … but, as Wheeler will know as much as anybody else, a long haul awaits.
