Nick Ryan’s memories of Victoria Derby Day as a jockey aren’t fond ones, but the now-trainer is out to change that with two strong contenders in Saturday’s $2 million staying classic at Flemington.

A former champion apprentice, Ryan famously wasted down to 47.5kg to ride Alinghi into second in the Empire Rose Stakes — his closest brush with Group 1 glory in the saddle.

Now, he saddles up Miewa and Highvol, his second and third Derby runners.

“It’s my third runner and for a small stable, it’s a good effort by the team,” Ryan said. “We have two runners that are in form and look like live chances.”

Miewa has followed a traditional path through the Super Impose Stakes and Caulfield Classic, finishing runner-up in both.

“He’s had the perfect prep,” Ryan said.

Highvol, meanwhile, arrives via the Geelong Classic after a solid effort in the Caulfield Guineas.

“All I can say is Miewa is the class horse with the pedigree, but Highvol wouldn’t shock me either,” Ryan said.