The young trainer saddles up front-running stayer Constant Force as his first runner when he tackles the $200,000 Darwin Cup today.

“Constant Force is the first horse that I have in my own name since Bill never renewed his trainer’s licence last Thursday,” Wilde said.

“Constant Force has trained on well since his run in the Metric Mile at Darwin last week. He was out the back and struggled to make ground but he will be better suited to the 2000 metres today.

“He’s drawn barrier nine, which I reckon will be an advantage. He should be able to travel across the field from the wide gate and get a nice spot in the run. Constant Force has a great record over 2000 metres and jockey Dean Yendall understands the horse.”

Wilde said it was business as usual for the 40 horses in the stable, despite his dad not being involved in the training partnership. 

“Bill has decided to stand back and enjoy his retirement but he will be staying on in a sort of foreman role for the stable,” Wilde said. 

“Bill has been easing back over the past few years and he just thought it was great if he and mum (Karen) do a bit of travelling. Bill has been a great sounding board for me during our partnership. He’ll still be in the background offering some advice.”

Constant Force is not the only horse in the Darwin Cup today with strong links to Warrnambool. Smarty Mac was trained by Warrnambool trainer Jarrod McLean until he was suspended for six months. 

The seven-year-old was transferred to Darren Weir’s stable before joining Darwin trainer Dick Leech. McLean, who regained his licence two weeks ago, decided to allow Leech to continue training Smarty Mac for his Darwin Cup run. 

“Dick’s done a great job with Smarty Mac. The horse has won one race and ran second at his other outing up here,” McLean said.