Smokin’ Joey wins 2015 Race-Tech Aust. Bletchingly Group 3 $150,000 at Caulfield (VIC), 1200m.
Smokin' Joey ran on strongly to score a very good win. He was eased from barrier nine and settled in second last place in the 11-horse field, following a solid pace (first 600m 35.35). He improved (wide with cover) from the 700m, fanned deep at the home turn before challenging strongly nearing the 200m. He then raced away over the final stages to win decisively.
Platinum Rocker was seventh, one off the rails, before getting a split at the home turn. She challenged at the 200m and then fought on for a good second, just finding the late-closing winner too strong.
Petrology raced back in eighth place, before tracking up nicely rounding the home turn. He put in a run at the 200m, went to fourth at the 100m and battled on for a sound third, going well at this first run this preparation.
Inspector travelled well in fifth place on the rails, got through to challenge at the 200m and then battled on for (4.8 lengths) fourth.
Nadeem Lass was near last to the home turn and made ground for (6.1 lengths) fifth.
Of the others, Angels Beach was a handy third to the home turn but disappointed in finishing ninth while the favourite Lord Of The Sky was ridden hard to lead and was then pressured in front before dropping out in the straight to finish last in a disappointing performance.
