Phoenix Thoroughbreds Buys Graded Winner Axelrod

Grade 1-placed, multiple graded winner Axelrod has been purchased privately by Phoenix Thoroughbreds and will be aimed for the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1), the ownership group announced Oct. 4.

Trained by Michael McCarthy, the 3-year-old son of Warrior's Reward  has won four of his 10 starts, including the Indiana Derby (G3) and Smarty Jones Stakes (G3). In his latest start, Axelrod was second to McKinzie in the Sept. 22 Pennsylvania Derby (G1).

Over the past few months, the Thoroughbred investment fund has been prominent at the yearling sales but is reaffirming its commitment to finding success on the track with a proven performer. This strategy led it to the acquisition of Advertise, who won the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (G1) at the Curragh after being purchased, and Signora Cabello, who won the Queen Mary Stakes (G2) and Darley Prix Robert Papin (G2) and was second in the Darley Prix Morny (G1) after Phoenix bought her.

"He's a nice horse strong horse with a big stride," said Tom Ludt, the head of equine operations for the fund. "We're looking at running him in the Breeders' Cup Classic, but all options are open as far as his next start is concerned."

Phoenix Thoroughbreds said it also found Axelrod's pedigree to have plenty of quality to make him a viable stallion prospect, but will put a stud career on hold for at least another 12 months.

"We plan on running him next year," added Ludt. "We will hopefully build a great racing résumé for a stallion in 2020."

Axelrod will stay with McCarthy in California. The colt most recently worked five furlongs Sept. 16 at Santa Anita Park in 1.02.20.