An accomplished miler throughout his career, Get Smokin was asked to test a new dimension going long at Kentucky Downs.

The experiment proved richly successful, as the 6yo more than doubled his career earnings winning yesterday's Gr2 FanDuel Kentucky Cup Turf over a mile and a half.

Consistent and tough, hallmarks of Hurstland Farm graduates, Get Smokin had won or placed in stakes company each of the past four seasons. The Turf Cup, with first-prize money of $972,220, marked his first added-money win since 2021.

A clue to confidence from Get Smokin's connections in the gelding's ability over longer routes was evident in his two most recent appearances. The Get Stormy gelding tried 10 furlongs first in Ellis Park's Turf Cup Preview, holding on for 4th after setting the pace.

Convinced he'd thrive going even further, Mark Casse's team readied him for a career-first try over 12 furlongs, and Saturday he rewarded their faith. Fernando De La Cruz put Get Smokin on a clear lead from the start, and down the long home stretch had plenty left to win by a comfortable 1 3/4 lengths from Spooky Channel.

Get Smokin's 2yo 1/2 brother by Vino Rosso sold for $550,000 in March. Dam Hookah Lady foaled a Classic Empire colt this past season.

Kentucky Downs photo.