Zoffany claims Phoenix Stakes

Aidan O’Brien and Johnny Murtagh recorded a treble when Zoffany claimed the Keeneland Phoenix Group 1 Stakes.

Murtagh who settled his mount in rear came with a run a furlong and a half out and the 3/1 shot stayed on well to lead close home.

Winning trainer O’Brien said afterwards: “He went to Ascot as a baby and it all happened a little bit too fast for him. We stepped him up in trip so things would happen a bit slower.”

“The plan was to get him relaxed and Johnny was very cool on him and gave him a great ride.”

“He’s getting heavier all of the time and he’s a lot stronger and more mature now as long as he keeps putting on weight we’ll keep going with him.”

“We’ll take it one step at a time but the National Stakes looks a likely option.”

Richard Hannon Jnr said of Strong Suit (finished 3rd): “We’ll bring him home and get him scoped but we’re not making any excuses.”

Boylesports and Ladbrokes have made Zoffany 10/1 for the 2000 Guineas.