Adding conviction to his Gr.1 Doomben Cup (2020m) bid in a fortnight’s time, Metal Bender (NZ) (Danasinga) burst through for an important return from injury win, conquering all before him in the Gr.2 AD Hollindale Stakes (1800m) at the Gold Coast.

Enjoying the step up in distance, Metal Bender (NZ) capitalised off a handy third position in transit for Hugh Bowman, knuckling down to business in the straight to comfortably see off the hot favourite Road To Rock by 1 ¼ lengths.

0.1 lengths away in third was Gold Water.

Last season, under the guidance of legendary trainer Jack Denham, the Waikato Stud-bred galloper was rated as one of the best 3YO’s in the land.

With victory befalling him in the Group One Randwick Guineas and the Gr.1 Rosehill Guineas two weeks later, the world looked to be his oyster.

Unfortunately, however, a subsequent stifle bone injury would later thwart all 3YO racing opportunities.

Owing to the sad passing of Denham, a recuperated Metal Bender (NZ) would later be transferred to the yard of Chris Waller early in 2010.

Whilst thriving in his work, it was not until his third start in and the opportunity to canvas extra ground, that the talented 4YO was able to show his wares to maximum advantage.

With A$192,000 being injected into the kitty on Saturday, Metal Bender (NZ) can now lay claim to being Australia’s latest addition to the ‘millionaires’ club’.

All told, the A$160,000 yearilng has achieved A$1,031,550 in earnings via a career record of 12 starts, 6 wins and 2 placings.

Metal Bender (NZ) will be spelled following his Gr.1 Doomben Cup outing.

Upon return, consideration will be given towards some of Melbourne’s big spring races.

Courtesy of New Zealand Thoroughbred Marketing