Quinton Hennigh on Rattlesnake Hills - First Results
Question: When you look at these first Rattlesnake results what stands out?
Dr. Quinton Hennigh: The first thing that jumps out is that these holes, each from widely spaced targets within a large mineralizing system, collectively demonstrate the enormous size potential at Rattlesnake. We are seeing gold over a much broader area and at much deeper levels than recognized in the past.
Q Were you surprised by anything in today’s results?
QH I was surprised and pleased to see gold continue to much deeper levels than encountered in historic drilling. These holes give us our first verification that the mineralizing system still has lots to offer in the way of deeper targets. I believe that we are near the paleo-erosional surface of this system and that there has been little erosion since the time it formed. If true, this would be one of the best-preserved alkaline gold systems around the world.
Q You are reporting three holes – how far apart were the holes?
QH The collar of hole RSC-002 drilled to test South Stock is approximately 250 m south of hole RSC-001, our first test of the Antelope Basin lamprophyre pipe. Hole RSC-003, the first in North Stock, was collared yet another 750 m north of RSC-001.
Q We are seeing high yield “intervals”. Can you explain what this might imply about the gold systems at Rattlesnake?
QH One thing I find very encouraging is that in addition to large intervals of lower grade mineralization, we are seeing some higher grades emerge. High grades contribute many of the ounces in other such alkaline gold systems such as Cripple Creek, Colorado and Porgera, Papua New Guinea. With some luck, further drilling may expand this high grade component and tell us more about whether Rattlesnake fits this mold.
Q When do you anticipate more results from Rattlesnake?
QH We will continue to receive assays from our Phase One program over the next 3-4 months. In total, we will have results for approximately 16-18 holes from this program.