Hollis headed back to stakes in Whitmore

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Hollis, who set a track record in December at Oaklawn, won his second allowance of the meet last week and is now poised to return to stakes competition. Trainer John Ortiz said Hollis is being pointed to the Grade 3, $200,000 Whitmore on March 19 at Oaklawn.

The horse’s long-range goal remains the Grade 3, $500,000 Count Fleet Sprint Handicap here April 16. Ortiz said Ricardo Santana Jr., who has been riding Hollis, is committed to the horse for the remainder of Oaklawn’s meet.

Hollis earned a 109 Beyer Speed Figure in December, then put up a 97 for his allowance win Feb. 20.

As for Whitmore, the horse, he will be celebrated March 19 at Oaklawn. The champion is now retired and at a local training center. He’s transitioning into his next chapter under the direction of trainer Ron Moquett’s wife, Laura.

“He’s starting to do a little more ground work with Laura,” Moquett said. “Basic manners and boundaries. He’s picking it up.”

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Plans are for Whitmore to be at Oaklawn on March 19, Moquett said.

Lukas secures young talent

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas is hardly slowing down at the age of 86.

“I refuse to get old,” he said.

Lukas and his wife, Laurie, hit the yearling sales last season for both clients and themselves, and landed four young prospects of their own. The horses are now 2 and will join the stable later this year in Kentucky.

Lukas said he and Laurie purchased offspring of American Pharoah, Connect, Liaison, and Flatter.