Heywood had just nine starters for the month of December but has seven horses engaged at Wagga's bumper 10-race card to kick off the new year.

In-form mare Coves has won two of her last five, including a strong last-start victory at Corowa on December 29, and will spearhead Heywood's team.

Heywood accepted in two races with Coves but is set to step her up in trip in the Thomas Blamey Tavern Benchmark 58 Handicap (1800m), a heat of the Wagga Stayers Series.

"I couldn't be happier with her," Heywood said.

"She always showed in her first preparation that she was going to be a nice horse, she just needed a bit of time and the owners have been great and given her that time.

"Early in the prep, even though she got away with the win I don't think the penny had dropped. I think it's just starting to now and with racing she seems to be getting better.

"She's out of a Galileo mare so I've always thought she was going to get a trip and Richie has backed me up there, which is good."

Richard Bensley will again take the ride on the four-year-old mare, who has drawn barrier one for the assignment.

Another runner Heywood is looking forward to on Thursday is lightly-raced three-year-old Blitzar, who is set to resume from a spell.

Blitzar won a showcase maiden at Dubbo at his second start after running a close second behind Blue Jean Baby at Wagga on debut.

Blitzar has drawn barrier 14 in the Weston & Weston Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Class Two Handicap (1000m) but is also in the second barrier trial.

"At this stage he's nominated for the trial as well and I'm leaving my options open until Thursday morning," he said.

"I've got some nice races planned out for him but we'll have to see what is best for him when we get down to it. I've always said I'll either race him or trial him at this meeting so I'll just work out which option is best for him."

Aaron Sweeney will retain the ride on Blitzar, whichever way he heads.

The 10-race card at Wagga finishes with the highly-competitive Suez Australia Summer Sprint (1200m).

Heywood will be represented by Fermanagh Lad and Delivered, who will be ridden by Jess Taylor and Amanda Masters.

"Delivered has had a few issues, some little niggling issues but is getting better and better all of the time," he said.

"Fermanagh Lad is just starting to hit his straps. I'd be more confident with him than Delivered."

Heywood also has three horses - Lucky To His Mates, Explosive Spirit and Deganway - contesting maidens on the card.

"They probably need the runs to get a little bit further," he said.

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