Hill Road to Continue American Campaign with Kentucky Derby in Sight

Hill Road’s American journey is set to continue following a strong third-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Del Mar. The two-year-old, owned by Amo Racing and trained by Adrian Murray, has shown promise across three starts this season. After winning a Leopardstown maiden in August, he faced a tougher challenge in the National Stakes at the Curragh, but his connections confidently aimed him at the Breeders' Cup, where he excelled on the dirt under jockey Umberto Rispoli.

As the son of Quality Road, Hill Road’s pedigree suggests he has more to offer on a dirt track. Murray confirmed that the colt would remain in the U.S. with the Kentucky Derby on the horizon. "He ran a blinder; I’m delighted with him," said Murray. "He’ll stay in America now to focus on dirt racing. They’ll see how he adapts, and if he progresses, he could be a Kentucky Derby contender."

Also representing Amo Racing and Murray’s stable at Del Mar was Arizona Blaze, who finished a commendable second in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint. The colt, who began his career with a maiden win at the Curragh and has consistently placed in major stakes races this season, showcased his resilience with a close half-length defeat in a field of 12.

"I was thrilled with him," Murray said. "With such a long journey, there’s always a worry, but everything went smoothly. He’s had a fantastic season, and his performance at Del Mar was possibly his best. He’s something to look forward to for next year."