Popular veteran Smokin’ Joey has returned to racing in the best way possible at Caulfield over the weekend; displaying an exceptional turn of foot to comfortably put away his rivals in the featured Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m).

Smokin’ Joey produced an impressive turn of foot to take out Saturday’s 2015 Bletchingly Stakes. Photo: Daniel Costello

Smokin’ Joey was a late nomination for the 2015 Bletchingly Stakes after trainer Wez Hunter elected to run the rising eight-year-old fresh, rather than contest a Victorian barrier trial this week in the lead-up to the Group 2 PB Lawrence Stakes (1400m) on August 15^th; his previously underlined first-up target.

Jumping from the gates well, jockey Chris Parnham settled the son of Encosta De Lago in prime position for his running style; off the speed of early leaders Lord Of The Sky and Rich Jack who set a noticeably quick tempo away from the gates and approaching the bend.

Arriving at the final straight wide and with plenty to do, Smokin’ Joey immediately responded when asked for an extra effort by Parnham; producing a monumental turn of foot to hit the line more than two lengths in the clear of closest rivals Platinum Rocker and Petrology and stamping his claims as one to watch through the 2015 Spring Carnival.

Hunter was understandably thrilled with Smokin’ Joey’s effort for success in the 2015 Bletchingly Stakes and revealed the gelding will likely step up to races over 2000m during his Spring Carnival campaign.

“When the noms were so light I was happy to roll the dice,” Hunter said after the race.

“It’s better than having a jump-out, that’s for sure.

“His owner’s very keen to try him at 2000. He’s a full brother to Our Smokin’ Joe, who got over 2500 and won a Queen Elizabeth (Stakes), so hopefully he can do the same.”

Parnham delivered a strong ride on Smokin’ Joey for success in the Bletchingly Stakes but was quick to lay all the praise on his talented mount immediately after crossing the line.

“I probably hit the front a bit too soon, certainly earlier than I wanted to, but he just tracked into it so well,” Parnham said.

“Obviously being a bit fresher today he was able to quicken a bit better, but he probably wasn’t at peak fitness today, so he’s done a great job.”

Punters who backed Smokin’ Joey to win the 2015 Bletchingly Stakes with leading online bookie Ladbrokes.com.au have been paid out on generous $6.50 odds for success!

2015 Bletchingly Stakes Results