Arizona Moon pulls 32-1 surprise in Cave Creek Stakes

PHOENIX – Arizona Moon was just 1 for his last 18, but the 4-year-old son of Macho Uno turned back the clock to post a 32-1 upset in Tuesday’s $25,000 Cave Creek Stakes at Turf Paradise.

Owned by John Campo 3rd and trained by Stacy Campo, Arizona Moon ($66) bided his time early under Isaias Enriquez in the mile main-track event as Shrewd Move set a strong pace under pressure from 4-5 favorite Way Striking and longshot Thetrailerguy. Arizona Moon remained well back as Way Striking took the lead turning for home, swung out for clear sailing, and came with a strong run to win by 4 1/2 lengths.

Way Striking, third in a tough stakes at Zia Park Nov. 22, pressed the pace while inside and stayed on for second, well clear of third finisher Born in a Breeze. Shrewd Move, who was pushed through fast splits, weakened to finish fifth in the field of nine.

Arizona Moon ran the distance in 1:35.64. The winner’s share of $14,880 gives him earnings of $88,202 from four wins in 24 starts.