Adkins has ridden the most winners of any of the apprentice jockeys taking part in the series where points are accumulated over a series of races.

The 19-year-old is one of three male apprentices with the girls making up the majority of the field.

“There are plenty of girls riding these days and they do very well,” he said.

The Sydney based apprentice has already out ridden his country claims and has many wins to his credit in Sydney.

Sikhing Glory has drawn barrier two over the 1000 metres and is coming off a four lengths win in maiden grade at Canberra four weeks ago.

The Joseph Pride trained three-year-old has since trialled and looks well placed despite coming up against last start winners including First Order, She Oak, She’s Kidding and Sweet Lyrical.

Adkins said the Rising Stars offered the opportunity for apprentices to build new connections and enhance their careers.

“It’s an asset for our industry and if you can win a heat or the series it helps your career,” he said.

As for his own chances, Adkins said it was always a race every apprentice tried to win.

“My horse is drawn well and has a top trainer in Joe Pride and is coming off a good last start win so he should run a big race,” he said.

First Order has had a brief career with a few recent breaks but has shown enough to suggest he will be in the finish.

The top weight Ballycastle Pegasus is never too far away and is also trained locally by Mark Gee.

There are showers forecast for the meeting with the track rated a soft five.