Hewitt chasing back-to-back Bidgee Cups

5 November 2026

MICHAEL DUMESNY  

Goulburn trainer Brad Hewitt is eyeing off back-to-back Bidgee Cups at Wagga, represented by three runners in the $100,000 feature.

The Riverina Paceway is set to light up on Friday night with a quality nine-race Carnival Of Cups race meeting; the first of five exciting extravaganzas being conducted by Harness Racing NSW.

Hewitt was able to capture last year’s edition of The Bidgee with star grand circuit performer Captains Knock and this time around he is chasing the Cup with three recent acquisitions to his stable namely Forever Onthe Punt, Its Confidential and emerging three-year-old star Palladium who steps up against the older horses after winning the Queensland Derby earlier this season.

Obviously, it was difficult for Hewitt to choose which of the trio he would drive but has decided to stick with Palladium.

And provided the former New Zealander produces a strong effort in the Bidgee, Hewitt has signalled a trip back to his homeland for a crack at the Derby in Christchurch on November 20.

Stable reinsman Harry Ross will partner Forever On the Punt who is auditioning to gain a slot in the $1.5 million TAB Eureka while Group 1 winning Victorian driver Nathan Jack will be aboard Its Confidential.

The Cup is being run over 2800 metre stayer’s distance and is littered with seasoned open class performers such as Max Delight, Ubetcha Tiger Pie, and Victoria Cup runner up Nyack.

And while Hewitt is well-aware that his trio are in for a tough tussle, he is confident that they will all make their presence felt.

“All three horses are currently racing in top form and a win for any of them certainly would not surprise me,” said Hewitt.

“Of course, they will all need to get their fair share of luck against such a quality field, but the barrier draw has favoured them, and they will each cope with the longer distance.

“Palladium has done a super job this season since joining our stable.

“If he measures up, he will head to New Zealand for the Derby in a fortnight’s time.

“Forever Onthe Punt has been a real surprise packet since coming to the stable performing strongly at Menangle and it would be great if he could be chosen by a slot holder for the Eureka.

“Its Confidential ran a strong third behind Swayzee last Saturday and is at his peak.”