The Tasmanian sprinter broke the track record en route to upsetting Hellova Street in last year’s instalment and never looked in doubt on Wednesday night, completing 1400m in 1:23.65 after being backed in to a $1.30 favourite. 

Count Da Vinci and Lord Da Vinci - both from Scott Brunton’s stables - finished in second and third.

Trainer Glenn Stevenson said he was “rapt” with his six-year-old’s performance. 

“We went to the mainland and ran second and a few places, but to win our major sprint races ... it’s brilliant,” Stevenson said.

“It’s great for the business, but it’s my best owners that have stuck with me through thick and thin.

“I got rubbed out this time last year for two months for a caffeine positive, so it’s huge for me and they’re the best people. And it’s a family thing so it’s brilliant.”

I’m Wesley was ridden by Raquel Clark in last year’s Newmarket and Conquering Stakes wins, but the star apprentice’s recent suspension paved the way for Brendon McCoull to take the reins.

Having first teamed up at a trial in Longford last month, the pair have now combined for two $100,000 wins in as many races. 

“It all went to plan pretty much,” McCoull said after the race.

“It was just a nice true-run race and he was in a nice spot and a good rhythm and he was too good for them.

There’s some good horses in the race probably not racing as good as they have in the past, and I feel like this horse is still holding near his best form if not.

“Luckily for me he was too good tonight and he won well.”

McCoull said I’m Wesley was fast making a name for himself.

“In recent years I’ve been lucky enough to ride horses like Tshahitsi and Admiral.

“They’ve been two fantastic horses for me, and this horse has come out of the blue a little bit this season, so I’m really pleased that Glenn’s put me on.”

Earlier in the night, Adam Trinder’s two-year-old Mystical Pursuit registered her first win in the maiden handicap 1100m.

Carrying 1.5kg, Chris Graham drove the Needs Further-sired filly to win in 1:06.98, a head clear of Gee Gees Punter.