Devons Smokin best in U. S. Bank Stakes

AUBURN, Wash. - Devons Smokin accelerated to the lead on the turn and withstood the late charge of Chestnut Lady to win Sunday's $40,000 U. S. Bank Stakes at Emerald Downs by 1 1-2 lengths. Wild R.N. held third after pressing the early pace.

Devons Smokin, who went off as the 5-2 favorite in a field of 11, covered the six furlongs in 1:10.20 under rider Julio Felix. Manuel Calvario saddled Devons Smokin for her first start outside of California, where she had been trained by Jeff Bonde.

It was the third win from 10 starts for Devons Smokin, who has now won $147,228 for the partnership of Phil Lebherz, Al Mariani, Carol Wirth and George Schmitt.