The Mack Griffith-trained Compelling Truth enhanced his tough-as-nails reputation at Eagle Farm on Saturday, winning the Listed $160,000 Hinkler Handicap (1200m).
Ridden by Bailey Wheeler, the 5YO I Am Invincible gelding was unwanted in the markets, drifting to $17, but Compelling Truth strode to victory – the 12th of his 24-start career.
A consistent galloper, trained out of Mudgee, with wins in Quality races such as the Wagga Town Plate and Sir James Kirby, along with other country feature-race victories in the Bathurst Panorama and Coonamble Cannonball, there’s no arguing the gelding’s tenacity and willingness to win.
Drawn awkwardly with gate 11 at Eagle Farm, Griffith praised Wheeler, suggesting the apprentice jockey proved all the difference as Compelling Truth’s earnings skyrocketed to over $500,000.
“The gate was a bit of a concern, but when the track started playing a bit on-pace, that was a bit of a plus,” Griffith said.
“You’ve just got to ride him half a second too fast than normal; a half a second back, and he switches off because he’s such a relaxed customer.
“You’ve just got to put him in the zone, and Bailey just knows how to do it. You’ve got to ride him a little bit ugly.
“If you put the bigger name jockeys on him, they want to ride him too pretty, but Bailey understands him, and they have a great combination together.”
It’s been a stunning few months for Griffith, who, since March 31st, has started 45 chances for 13 wins at a winning strike rate of 28.9%.
Following up their win at Eagle Farm with Compelling Truth, the stable was at Tamworth on Monday, with Wolf Club (Mikayla Weir, $7) triumphing in the 210mm Benchmark 66 Handicap.
