Firebolt has blitzed to victory in the first Group race of at Doomben today, winning the Lord Mayor’s Cup by almost one and a half lengths.

The five-year-old Stravinsky gelding made up for his last start in the Group 3 Chairman’s Handicap last weekend where he finished tenth behind Robert Heathcote’s Humma.

The horse took full advantage of his ideal barrier draw of five and shot to an early three length lead ahead of Our Lukas, who eventually tired and finished last.

The ex- New Zealander Firebolt was having only his second Australian race start in today’s race and further highlighted the success of international gallopers this racing season.

Jockey Hugh Bowman, who rode Firebolt to his impressive victory, said that he had never planned to lead but the gelding took matters into his own hands early on.

“It was a good win but the plan wasn’t to lead,” Bowman said.

“I nearly had him relaxed but he just spotted one on his outside and took off so I had no choice.

“He’s a big strong animal and once he got there I just tried to work with him instead of trying to rate him.”

Bowman was certain Firebolt’s ability would be enough to hold the rest of the field off down the home straight.

“I knew he wouldn’t stop. He’s big and strong and was coming back in trip.”

It was a New Zealand quinella in the Lord Mayor’s Cup with St Germaine hitting the line well to finish second, while Tagus finished in third.