Promising young hoop Alana Brown will represent the NT in the first heat of the National Apprentice Series at Moonee Valley tonight.

Brown, the daughter of leading Darwin trainer Stephen, is flying to Melbourne today for the race, which will feature apprentice jockeys from all around Australia.

It's the first in a series of events which will be run nationwide, with all the NT apprentices getting the chance to compete in at least a couple of the races.

"I'm really excited," Brown said.

"It's a great opportunity to race in Melbourne, particularly at a track like Moonee Valley. I've met a couple of the other jockeys before, including Jason Maskiell and Jake Noonan, so it should be good."

Brown has been attending Racing Victoria's apprentice school while studying Year 12 at Darwin High.

A stayer bought with a Melbourne Cup campaign in mind, Amber Grey is rated an $8 chance in early markets, behind $3 favourite Eraset.

"I've had a look at its form, and it's won over 2000m and has finished fourth over 1400m, so it should be interesting. It might go all right," Brown said.

"When I get down there, I'll talk to them and see what they want me to do."

It will be a quick trip for Brown, who is due back in the Top End tomorrow for four rides at Fannie Bay.

Story courtesy of Tom Biddington, NT News