Local apprentice Claire Nutman is fully aware of the challenges Hurrara faces in his bid to win the Gold Rush at Hawkesbury for a second time.

The Garry Frazer-trained gelding claimed the $125,000 sprint by a half neck over Ichihara last year.

But the seven-year-old has been slow to hit the mark during this year's preparations and will be facing a stronger field and heavier weight when he runs in Saturday's 1100m dash.

"Last year was the best prep he's ever had," Nutman said.

"I think last year's race was slightly weaker and he got in on 54 (kg).

"This year he's carrying 57 and I think it's a stronger race."

Hurrara might be an outside chance but Nutman knows him well.

The timid horse likes a soft track, a woman's touch and is hard to get ahead of on a good day.

"He's very easy to ride. He's very one dimensional," Nutman said.

"He's quite genuinely scared and he seems to go well for girls."

Nutman will also ride Campania in the Blakes Marine on her home track's biggest day of the year.

She says she expects the mare, who loves wet tracks, to run well with 52kg.

Nutman has outridden her country claim and says she has had a hard time getting rides during the autumn carnival and is looking forward to riding at the Hawkesbury feature meeting for the first time.