Talented Riverton three-year-old Riviera Rebel will head to Wingatui on Sunday to kick off a winter campaign that could culminate in a shot at the Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m).

Leading South Island trainers Michael and Matthew Pitman are expected to be a formidable force to be reckoned with in the coming days.

Tayla Melvin had an afternoon to remember at Pukekohe Park on Saturday, riding her first winner in the saddle aboard the Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson-trained Devoted.

Courtney Barnes is on track for a career-best season in the saddle and continued her winning roll with a double at Taupo on Wednesday.

With three runner-up results from just five raceday appearances, De Russian Rocket is due a win, and trainer Ebony Turner is hoping it comes at Wingatui on Friday.

Robert Dennis’ results since returning to Southland continue to far exceed his expectations.

Winton trainer John Phillips has been welcoming the wet weather in Southland this week ahead of his wet track specialist Midnight Runner’s return to racing at Riverton on Friday.

Last season’s Champion South Island apprentice jockey Yogesh Atchamah moved to Christchurch at the start of the year, and he is loving every moment.

Former northerners Loftys Gift and Medina are starting to leave their mark in the south, with the pair securing a winning double for trainer Robert Dennis at Wingatui on Sunday.

Riverton galloper Lightning Jack will aim for back-to-back victories on his adopted home track of Otaki on Thursday when contesting the Listed ANZAC Mile (1600m).