Direen teams up with Tutor in the opening event on the card, a 1200m maiden, and the pair bring a tidy last-start effort into today's assignment.
The Gallant Guru mare battled on well for third behind Jimmytoshoes at Winton on November 20 and Direen hopes a gear change by co-trainer Brian Anderton might get the best out of the 4yr-old.
''BJ's put the side winkers on her just to get her up on the bit a little bit, as she's a wee bit too relaxed in her races,'' Direen said.
''I think she can win that race easy.''
Just eight gallopers accepted for the maiden race, and Direen will be able to decide her options from the handy barrier draw of 2.
Tutor is one of two good chances Direen rides for her employers, Brian and Shane Anderton, with the smart galloper Blue 'N' Gold returning to racing in the rating 75 1600m.
Blue 'N' Gold thrived on a good track at Riverton in March before battling on the rain-affected tracks, but Direen's 1kg claim means the Gallant Guru will only have to carry 53.5kg.
''She'll probably need this run because it's first up over a mile, but she comes in good at the weights.
''She's fit and ready to go so she should be a good chance.''
Direen has two rides for Wingatui trainer Terry Kennedy, and she has past experience with Remind Me (race 2), having ridden her at Waimate in June to eighth place on a dead track.
''She didn't go too great then, but I think she was a bit tired and had a few problems.
''They've turned her out and brought her back and said she's doing good - I think she's a good chance in the small field.''
Direen does not know as much about Eldante (race 4), who is also returning to racing after last racing at Oamaru in July.
But she has gained some insight from fellow jockey and friend Courtney Barnes, who has teamed up with Eldante regularly.
''Courtney has ridden her and said she handles a good track, so fresh-up again on her home track she should go all right.''
Direen will find out more about Zac's Girl (race 7) and Sophronia (race 8) today, and hopes the mile could be the right distance for Little Ted (race 5), who has battled in his two starts to date over 1200m.
''The mile at Wingatui will suit him with the big long run up the back - he just hasn't shown much. This could be his last go to see what he can do over a mile anyway. He's got a low head carriage too so the good track will help him.''
Direen has no specific number in mind for this season, other than to rack up the wins. She has five wins so far this season.
''I just want to get as many winners as I can because it's my last year [as an apprentice] - even a group or listed race [would be nice].
''Valiant is my favourite in the stable, so hopefully BJ can put him in a big race somewhere.''
