Hollis hoping Rhinestone will sparkle at Cambridge tonight

[Wandering Eyes]

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk 
 
Logan Hollis is upbeat about finishing an already good week on a high.

On Monday Hollis and partner Shane Robertson (Hollis and Robertson Equine Services) were the leading vendor by average at the NZB Standardbred National Yearling sales at Karaka.

They sold six yearlings, worth a combined $617,000 including the $220,000 sales topper, a Walner – Destinee Jenilou filly on behalf of Australian breeders Yabby Dam Farms.

“Three or four more of our yearlings were close to their reserve too so hopefully NZB will sell them too,” said Hollis.

“We were really happy with the sale.”

A day after the Auckland sale finished Hollis was busy qualifying a two-year-old Vincent filly This And That at the Pukekohe trials and today he will be driving Rhinestone in Race 3, the Night of Champions Tickets on Sale Now Pace at Cambridge (6.53pm).

The four-year-old gelding, who he trains with Robertson, has placed twice in nine career starts and Hollis reckons he is not far away from a breakthrough win.

“I took him to the trials (January 13) and he ran second to Lincoln Wave.”

Lincoln Wave has subsequently won two races at Alexandra Park.

“Last campaign we thought he wasn’t really putting in so he’s had a break and his work has been really good.”

That he has drawn the ace over the 2200 metres has also buoyed Hollis’ confidence.

“I think he’s a real chance.”

Midfrew Lando, after an unlucky eighth on debut, and the David Butcher trained and driven King Tide look his biggest threats.

Midfrew Lando opened at $2.15 with Rhinestone at $8.50.

For Hollis, a win would put quite the exclamation mark on a busy week on and off the track.  

Cambridge’s six race meeting gets underway at 5.55pm. 

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