Trainer Adrian Murray is optimistic about his two contenders, Arizona Blaze and Hill Road, as they prepare to challenge the field at the Breeders’ Cup in Del Mar on Friday. Both horses, owned by Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, are expected to outrun their odds, with Murray drawing confidence from last year’s success when his Royal Ascot star, Valiant Force, placed second in the Juvenile Turf Sprint.
Arizona Blaze, Murray’s main hope in the Juvenile Turf Sprint, has proven his mettle this season, never finishing outside the top four in eight starts and securing a Group Three victory in May. “Arizona Blaze is in top form, and we’re excited to see him perform. His experience and consistent form should serve him well here,” Murray noted, emphasising the colt’s preparation for handling the course.
Meanwhile, Hill Road will compete in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile on dirt, a new challenge for the promising youngster. A striking maiden winner at Leopardstown, Hill Road has only had three career starts, and this will be his first on dirt. Despite an initial setback in the National Stakes, Murray remains hopeful, saying, “He’s handled dirt well in training and looks in great shape. We’re anticipating a strong performance, and he’s proven he can tackle the mile.”