Wez Hunter and his mate, Smokin Joey, were richly rewarded when the duo combined to win the Group 3 Herald Sun Carlyon Cup at Caulfield on Saturday.

The seven year old Encosta de Lago gelding was cherry ripe for Saturday’s assignment, he had worked well, although he was racing second up since the Spring, that can be a concern but didn’t bother Wes.

It is now full steam ahead to the 1400 metres of the time honoured Group 1Futurity Stakes in two weeks, and Smokey is in form, he will be there giving it a real shake

Smokin Joey on the extreme outside gets the verdict.

Wez can go into the race with his horse confident he has peaked at the right time, there is nothing like winning form

The gelding has never raced better; there was plenty of zest in his step when the field rounded the home turn for the run in.

As the race was run he was forced to come from behind the favourite Jacquinot Bay, who was attempting to record his fourth win in a row.

He races out of the paddock which obviously suits him, he is as tough as teak, he enjoys a trip to the beach in the care of Meredith Tuckett, she rides the gelding each day.

Chris Parnham, whose father Neville is the leading trainer in Perth, made the best of his only ride at Caulfield, it was a top ride from one who deserves more rides than he is receiving.

Trainer - Wez Hunter