Arizona Blaze is set to secure another victory at Curragh

Arizona Blaze will aim to secure back-to-back wins for Adrian Murray in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at Curragh this Saturday.

Murray achieved his first and only Group One victory last year when Bucanero Fuerte triumphed over the subsequent multiple Group One winner Porta Fortuna.

Arizona Blaze has shown strong form this season, winning the Marble Hill Stakes over six furlongs and finishing a close third in the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot. Most recently, he claimed another third place in the Railway Stakes behind Henry Matisse.

Murray commented that Arizona Blaze has a “fighting chance” in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes. He described the horse as “solid with good form and strong for his age.” Murray noted that Arizona Blaze’s impressive performance at Ascot was over five furlongs, highlighting the horse’s versatility and speed. He confirmed that there are no plans to increase the distance, as Arizona Blaze is a sprinter through and through.

Murray also mentioned that the horse adapts well to various ground conditions, having won on heavy ground and performed admirably on quick ground at Ascot. He acknowledged that the Phoenix Stakes is a competitive Group One race but expressed hope that Arizona Blaze will finish in the top three.

Among the 11 entries are five from Aidan O’Brien’s Ballydoyle stable, led by Whistlejacket, who won the July Stakes at Newmarket. O’Brien has also included Heavens Gate, the recent winner of the Ballyhane Stakes at Naas.

Richard Fahey may enter Shadow Army, who was second in the Prix Robert Papin, while Adrian Keatley’s Francisco’s Piece is another possible UK runner.

According to bookmakers, Ger Lyons’ unbeaten filly Babouche is seen as a major contender against Whistlejacket.