Southern rider Tina Comignaghi impressed during her northern stint.

Apprenticed to John and Karen Parsons, she enjoyed a short spell with Matamata trainers Michael Moroney and Pam Gerard, courtesy of winning the Ashlee Mundy Memorial Jockeys’ Choice Award.

“The prize was a big trophy and a trip to the North Island,” Comignaghi said. “I waited until the season quietened down a bit and (Riding Master) Noel Harris sorted it out for me.

“The people were lovely, very professional, and I learned a lot, which is the main reason for the trip.”

Comignaghi bagged two placings from rides for Ballymore Stables aboard Captain Risky at Avondale debutante Fly to the Moon at Matamata.

“It was great to have her up here,” Gerard said. “Tina has caught the eye of many trainers around Matamata.

“She is probably a bit better than what she thinks she is as a rider and will gain plenty of confidence from being here. She is a lovely kind rider and it’s been a pleasure to have her and we look forward to her coming back again.”