Joker Boy has easy time in I'm Smokin Stakes
DEL MAR, Calif. - Joker Boy is a serious 2-year-old, at least from jockey Edwin Maldonado’s perspective.
On Saturday at Del Mar, Joker Boy remained unbeaten after two starts with an easy 3 1/2-length win in the $100,500 I’m Smokin Stakes for California-breds.
“He’s a pro,” Maldonado said. “When I first got on him, I didn’t think he was a 2-year-old. I was amazed. He acted like an older horse.”
Joker Boy ($19.80) disputed the pace throughout the I’m Smokin Stakes, finishing six furlongs in 1:10.77. He earned a Beyer Speed Figure of 79.
Joker Boy raced with the filly Zuboshi for the first quarter-mile in 22.03 seconds before she faded from contention. Mr. T’s Thirsty raced outside of Joker Boy approaching the turn, but could not keep pace. Joker Boy took a commanding lead after a half-mile in 45.29.
Rock N Rye, the 7-5 favorite, was within a length of Joker Boy on the turn, but could not sustain the effort. Rock N Rye salvaged second, finishing 4 1/4 lengths clear of Thirsty Always. Moose Mitchell finished fourth, followed by Mr. T’s Thirsty, Eleuthera, and Zuboshi, who was eased but crossed under the wire.
Rock N Rye won the Graduation Stakes for statebred 2-year-olds at 5 1/2 furlongs in his stakes debut on Aug. 8.
Joker Boy won his debut in a maiden special weight race for California-breds at 5 1/2 furlongs on Aug. 7 with Maldonado aboard. The colt is by Practical Joke and races for owners and breeders Rusty Brown, Alan Klein and Phil Lebherz, and trainer Brian Koriner.