All racing participants want to be a part of the big race days and jockey Darren Gauci is certainly no different.

The former pin-up boy doesn't get the same opportunities he once commanded but he's looking forward to being at Caulfield on Saturday.

The 48-year-old has one ride on the 10 race card, the $51 outsider Tristram's Sun in the Group One Toorak Handicap (1600m).

Gauci's last Group One victory came aboard El Segundo in the 2006 Underwood Stakes while during the 2013/14 season he had just three rides at the highest level.

"I've been there (Caulfield) plenty of times before and I hope the horse runs well," Gauci said.

"It's been a while since I had a Group One ride but it's great to be a part of the action.

"It's great that the Shergar Syndicate (owners of Tristram's Sun) have a runner.

"It's a jump in class for him but his form leading into the race has been good. Hopefully he'll get a good run in the race and who knows what will happen."

Gauci spends most of his time these days riding work for the Shergar Syndicate that have the majority of their horses with Tristram's Sun's trainer Robbie Laing.

"They've got a lot young horses that are still coming through," Gauci said.

"Things have been a little quiet of late but hopefully they start to pick up again in the next couple of years."

Even after a long career in the saddle Gauci still feels that sense of excitement when he jumps aboard and is looking forward to being a part of the Group One action on Saturday.