Makfi Challenge Stakes Daffodil Raceday at Hastings Racecourse, also a fundraiser for Cancer Society Hawke's Bay. Video by Duncan Brown

Get up close with a Kiwi cricket star and the Cancer Society tomorrow - during the first of a three-day Bostock NZ Spring Racing Carnival.

If All Blacks prop Ben Franks is feeling the tension in the countdown to the naming of the World Cup squad on Sunday he's hiding it well.

Hawke's Bay swimmer Bobbi Gichard remains a hot prospect for the Rio Olympics after her bronze medal effort in the 100m backstroke final at the World Junior Championships..

All Black fullback Israel Dagg helped himself to a hat trick of tries as Hawke's Bay took down Otago tonight.

If Israel Dagg's answer to a pertinent question is an indication, don't discount his chances of making the All Blacks' World Cup squad.

Central Districts Stags' third selector Kerry O'Neill understands what the demands are on young cricketing talent.

It was a classic David v Goliath sporting encounter yesterday as a team of rugby league novices from Napier Intermediate School took on far more league-savvy boys.

Those who persevere and are not afraid to stray on alternate routes will no doubt reach their destination with a sense of purpose.

Top marks for optimism in the build up to tonight's Hawke's Bay Super 6 premier netball final go to Hastings High School Old Girls Huias goal attack Kirby Heath.