Siblings in sync
While two-year-old colt Rock Island Line(Rock ‘n’ Pop x Island Time) is set to debut on Saturday, older and wiser half-sister North and South kicks off possibly the last campaign of her impressive career.
Leading trainer of both horses, Lisa Latta, has been impressed with the young colt’s attitude and ability. “He’s had two nice jump outs and didn’t need a trial prior to racing. We are expecting a nice debut on his home course from barrier 3 and that he will take a lot from the experience.”
The family resemblance is strong when it comes to their preference for wet tracks. North and South has had an impressive 10 wins in her career – 90% of those with Robbie Hannam on her back.
Says Robbie, “We’ve been successful together even if she is not well liked because she is pretty difficult to work with. But, hey, she gets the results!”
North and South, who is already a stakes winner and has previously performed well at Rotorua, races in the Group 3 fillies and mares race there worth $70,000. She races well fresh and track conditions look to be ideal for her.
Robbie will ride both horses this weekend. “It’s pretty special to be riding them both especially if this is the changing of the guard.”