Miller, Arroyo part ways indefinitely

DEL MAR, Calif. – Trainer Peter Miller said on Thursday that he has discontinued his relationship with jockey Norberto Arroyo Jr. despite widespread success in recent months.

Miller declined to say why he is not using Arroyo for his massive stable but said it did not stem from a particular ride.

“It has to do with other issues,” Miller said.

“I’m taking a break from Norberto. He’s off everything in my barn right now.”

Through Thursday, Miller and Arroyo had combined to win 28 of 100 races this year. Arroyo rode Arms Runner to a seventh-place finish for Miller in Wednesday’s Oceanside Stakes on the opening day of the Del Mar meeting but did not have any additional mounts for Miller through Sunday.

Miller said his decision not to ride Arroyo is not necessarily permanent.

“You never say never,” Miller said.

Arroyo was booked on one mount for Thursday, in the eighth race, but was taken off that horse when he arrived to the jockeys’ room late, according to track stewards. Riders must be present one hour before their first mounts on a program.

Arms Runner is a candidate for the Grade 3 La Jolla Handicap at 1 1/16 miles on turf for 3-year-olds on Aug. 6, Miller said.