Never off the board in his last nine starts, the Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Smokin’ Romans was rewarded for his consistency in Saturday’s $300,000 Listed Sportsbet Pakenham Cup (2500m).
Riding the early speed under Jamie Kah, the 5yo son of Ghibellines struck the front at the 300m and was never in danger from there.
He kept up a relentless gallop to defeat Good Idea (So You Think) by two lengths, with Team Captain (Galileo) the same distance back in third.
Smokin’ Romans contested his first stakes race at his previous start when edged out by Wentwood in the $400,000 Group III Bendigo Cup (2400m).
His overall record advances to seven wins, five seconds, and a third from 18 starts with earnings of $531,415.
David Eustice said the 5yo gelding is a stable favourite.
“He is an absolute legend. He’s been in work over a year, and he just keeps turning up,” Eustice said.
“He loves his racing and he’s just getting better and better.
“He’s a funny horse, he’s always had his quirks, but he was really really good today.
“He got a lovely ride, and he’s a favourite in the stable.
“He probably was a little bit stiff (Bendigo Cup), but it’s a big thrill today.
“Jamie did what she does, she got him into a beautiful rhythm, and it’s great to have her back. She’s a star of the sport. She’s just a natural and very gifted rider, and that’s a rare thing.”
Smokin’ Romans was Kah’s first win since her return from suspension.
“It’s amazing; I’ve missed it greatly,” Kah said.
“To come back and get a winner like that is very rewarding and I’m just happy to be back.
“All credit to Ciaran and Dave. He has been up so long, and I’ve never seen him look so good. He was amazing out there today and made my job easy.
“I knew I had a fit horse underneath and knew if I wanted to go I could, but I wanted to give him the easiest run I could early.
“He does it all himself, he could feel them coming, and he just quickens up when they get to him. He’s push-button, a really lovely stayer.”
Consigned by White Robe Stud to the 2018 Karaka National Yearling Sale, Smokin’ Romans was a $52,500 purchase for Darren Weir.
Smokin’ Romans inherited the toughness of his dam Interiors (Yamanin Vital), whose ten wins included the Group III Canterbury Gold Cup twice.
Inferno is a half-sister to Listed winner Ortem Fire (Gallant Guru), and the stakes placegetters Unfurl (Raise the Flag) and Ronnie (Seasoned Star).
Smokin’ Romans is the third stakes-winner for White Robe Stud’s Group II ATC Todman Stakes Ghibellines (Shamardal), a half-sister to 4-time Group 1 winner Guelph (Exceed And Excel).
