Image courtesy of Bronwen Healy
Listed Pakenham Cup, $300,000, 2500m
It was a deserved victory for the tough Smokin’ Romans (NZ) (Ghibellines) who has shown through a lengthy campaign that he is both talented and tough.
Bred by BJ and LE Anderton, he was purchased by Darren Weir for NZ$52,500 at the 2018 New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling Sale.
The third stakes winner for White Robe Lodge’s G2 Todman S. winner Ghibellines (Shamardal {USA}), he is one of the three winners (from as many foals) for the dual G3 Canterbury Gold Cup winner Inferno (NZ) (Yamanin Vital {NZ}).
Last spring paying a return visit to Ghibellines, Inferno also has a yet to be named 2-year-old colt by the same stallion.
Inferno is a half-sister to the Listed Inglewood S. winner Ortem Fire (NZ) (Gallant Guru) and the stakes-placed Unfurl (NZ) (Raise The Flag {GB}) and Ronnie (NZ) (Seasoned Star).
With pedigree enthusiasts Tim and Brian Kelly amongst the owners, it is no surprise that Smokin’ Romans boasts good pedigree strength including multiple strains of the great broodmare Somethingroyal (USA) (Princequillo {Ire}).
