Zambora Smokey Sets Warrnambool Cup Pace

BRILLIANT youngster Zambora Smokey set Warrnambool alight on Thursday afternoon with a dazzling 25.08 victory in his heat of the Warrnambool Cup (450m).

Going into Thursday's star-studded heats there was a sense of feeling that the prodigious talent could give multiple group 1 winning superstar Simon Told Helen a real run for his money with the right run in transit.

And that's exactly what eventuated with Zambora Smokey charging home to defeat a gallant Simon Told Helen by 2 ½ lengths in a slashing 25.08 on a rain affected track.

Victorious at 11 of his 15 starts for trainer Jason Thompson, Zambora Smokey is a son of 2016 Warrnambool Cup hero Zambora Brockie, his demand at stud soaring by the day.

And with performances like Zambora Smokey's rampaging Warrnambool victory, it's not hard to understand why.

The hugely talented youngster will exit box two in next Wednesday night's finale, looking to emulate the deeds of his champion sire.

Simon Told Helen will exit the cherry for the final and with Thursday's heat run under his belt, his first since winning the Perth Cup mid last month, the son of Barcia Bale has been installed the $2.60 favourite by TAB.

Zambora Smokey is second favourite at $2.80.

With some favourites going by the wayside on Thursday, trainer Andrea Dailly put on a clinic, winning three heats and qualifying four runners for next week's final.

Dailly, winner of three Warrnambool Cups including last year with Dyna Patty, scored with Leon Bale (25.47), Aston Cade (25.12) and Faithy Bale (25.39).

Jax Bale progressed to the final also with his narrow second to kennelmate Aston Cade in the second quickest time of the day.

Razor Sharp handed Jason Thompson a training double and two cup finalists with his 25.24 heat victory while the final heat went the way of Angela Langton's Security Code in 25.59.

Bring on next Wednesday's final. It's going to be a ripper!

BOX DRAW: WARRNAMBOOL CUP (450m)

1. SIMON TOLD HELEN
2. ZAMBORA SMOKEY
3. ASTON CADE
4. RAZOR SHARP
5. JAX BALE
6. FAITHY BALE
7. LEON BALE
8. SECURITY CODE