Murray aiming to make Breeders’ Cup mark

Adam Morgan
October 30, 2024 11:57 am

Trainer will be double handed on Friday’s opening card at Del Mar.

Adrian Murray is optimistic both Arizona Blaze and Hill Road can outrun their odds at the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar on Friday.

Murray, who trains the duo for Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, had an excellent first experience at the Stateside event 12 months ago when his Royal Ascot hero Valiant Force chased home Big Evs for an honourable second in the Juvenile Turf Sprint.

He is now back in California hoping to go one better in the same race with the battle-hardened Arizona Blaze, who is yet to finish to finish outside the top four in eight starts and scooped Group Three honours in May.

Arizona Blaze has been a consistent performer this term (Damien Eagers/PA)

“We’re looking forward to it with two nice horses,” said Murray.

“Arizona Blaze is in great order. We’re very hopeful and he has plenty of experience under him. We’ve been delighted with him all through the year.

“It’s all guns blazing with him now and I think his experience has to be a big help to him. His last run was in Dundalk, where he had to handle the bend and he handled it very well.”

Murray will also try to get his hands on the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile as Hill Road tackles dirt on just the third start of his career.

A thoroughly impressive maiden winner at Leopardstown on debut, he was found wanting when immediately upped to Group One company in the National Stakes, but connections are hopeful the US-bred son of Quality Road can thrive on this new surface when taking on some of America’s best youngsters.

Murray continued: “He’s going on the dirt and we’re very happy with him. We’re looking forward to a big run from him.

“He’s handled the dirt very well (in the mornings) but he’s only had a hack round. Tuesday was his first morning over here but he took it well and is in great order.

“He’s full of class and the mile won’t be a problem to him.”