(Alex Norwick/Neon Tommy)

The seven-year-old gelding became the first horse to win the race for a third time. His previous victories in 2013 and 2011.

“He was on his toes today, he was on fire,” said Smith. “When he shows up he can run with anybody in the world.”

Smith took the lead from the start, holding off Will Take Charge and favorite Mucho Macho Man in the backstretch. Game On Dude crossed the wire 1¾ lengths ahead of Will Take Charge. Blingo was third and Mucho Macho Man finished fourth.

Trainer Bob Baffert expected the field of seven to fight for the lead and told Smith to hold off any challengers.

“They went fast but he was rockin’, he was rollin’,” said Baffert. “We came in under the radar and we were ready for them.”

The win was the first of the year for Game On Dude, ending a three-race loosing streak that began with the 2013 Breeders’ Cup Classic.

“Bob told me to trust him, that I would have a different horse this time,” said Smith. “We may throw in a dud every now and then but he makes up for it.”

Game On Dude ran 1¼ miles in 1:58.17 and paid $9.60 for a winning $2 ticket. His career earnings now exceed $6.16 million.

Reach Staff Writer Alex Norwick here.