A remarkable performance marked the first stakes victory for Dazzling Move, a filly recently acquired by Miller Racing. Under the guidance of jockey Dylan Davis, she overtook the favored Grand Job in the final stretch to win the Grade 3, $165,000 Royal Delta Stakes at Gulfstream Park. The race, spanning 1 1/16 miles on a fast track, saw Dazzling Move clock in an impressive time of 1:45.08. This win not only earned her trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. his second consecutive Royal Delta triumph but also showcased the filly's potential in longer distances.
The competition was fierce from the start, with multiple contenders vying for the lead. Initially, Intrepid Daydream, trained by Joseph, aimed to take the front position but was outpaced by Grand Job, who quickly established herself as the frontrunner. As the race progressed, Júnior Alvarado maintained Grand Job’s lead through the early stages, while Davis strategically kept Dazzling Move in contention, biding her time behind the leading duo. By the second turn, Dazzling Move made her move, advancing to second place and setting the stage for her eventual surge. Despite Grand Job's strong finish, Dazzling Move demonstrated resilience, closing the gap in the final stretch to secure a three-quarter-length victory. Autumn Evening, trained by Todd Pletcher, rounded out the top three with a commendable effort.
This win signifies more than just a race victory; it represents the culmination of strategic planning and adaptability. Trainer Saffie Joseph Jr.'s decision to purchase Dazzling Move and prepare her for this event paid off handsomely. The filly's ability to handle two turns for the first time underscores the importance of innovation and perseverance in horse racing. Joseph expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, noting that this success opens new possibilities for Dazzling Move's future. The triumph also highlights the collaborative efforts between owner Myron Miller and Joseph, proving that taking calculated risks can lead to extraordinary results. Moving forward, the team will continue to explore opportunities that challenge and develop the filly's talents.