Samantha Wynne will be hoping to break new ground at Wingatui on Boxing Day.

Four has been Buoyant’s favourite number since his return to New Zealand, with the Group Three winner having recorded that placing in all three of his starts this preparation, and owner-trainer Sabin Kirkland is hoping to break that sequence when he heads to Gore on Sunday.

Cluedo Lane came into Kimberley Hodgson’s care around the festive season last year, and on Wednesday at Ashburton, she hopes he can deliver an early Christmas present in the Agraforum Growing Innovation (1600m).

Donovan Cooper has made quite the impression in the southern jockey ranks since he moved down from the North Island earlier this year, and he continued his good run of form at Ascot Park on Saturday when scoring a four timer.

Talented local gelding Willis overcame a tough wide run and a determined rival to score a narrow victory in Saturday’s Howley Joinery Handicap (1400m) at Ascot Park.

After more than 60 years and a multitude of top-flight success in the role, the Dennis brothers have retired from training.