David Azzopardi, the owner of Dream Thoroughbreds, will be eagerly watching Saturday’s $1 million The Showdown at Caulfield, with two of his horses in the field: Befuddle, trained by John Sadler, and McGaw, a runner bred and sold by Azzopardi.

While Azzopardi’s loyalty lies with Befuddle, who races in his colours, he’s equally excited for McGaw’s prospects. “I’m obviously supporting Befuddle, but if McGaw wins, I wouldn’t be too upset,” Azzopardi said. McGaw, trained by David and Emma-Lee Browne, was sold for $14,000 at last year’s Inglis Premier Yearling Sale, but after McGaw’s impressive debut win at Pakenham, Azzopardi has seen the value of the horse increase significantly.

Azzopardi has high hopes for Befuddle, who scored an all-the-way win at Moonee Valley last month to secure her spot in The Showdown. “I think the race is winnable for Befuddle, and I’m hopeful for a top-three finish,” Azzopardi said. She has drawn barrier six, which gives her an excellent chance of success, especially after a strong preparation.

At $15, Befuddle is a solid contender in the market, with Azzopardi confident she can run a big race. “If she runs out the 1200 meters well, she’s definitely in with a good chance,” he added.