Afleet Alex, First Samurai arrive at Gulfstream Park

Afleet Alex has three Grade 1 victories to his credit  (Michael J. Marten/Horsephotos.com)

Dual classic winner AFLEET ALEX (Northern Afleet) was among the more
than 100 horses who arrived Monday at Gulfstream Park. The multiple
Grade 1 hero arrived without incident after a van ride from Delaware Park. Afleet Alex was sidelined with a condylar fracture in his left front cannon bone
after winning the Belmont S. (G1) by seven lengths on June 11.

This will be the first year at the Hallandale,
Florida, track for trainer Tim Ritchey, who indicated Afleet Alex could run in
the $1 million Sunshine Millions Classic at Santa Anita Park on January 28.

FIRST SAMURAI (Giant’s Causeway), who finished third to Stevie Wonderboy
(Stephen Got Even) in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1), also arrived
at Gulfstream Park on Monday. The Frank Brothers-conditioned chestnut captured
the Hopeful S. (G1) and Champagne S. (G1) and is a
leading Triple Crown contender.

Prospective races for First Samurai at Gulfstream Park include the $125,000 Aventura S. on January 7,
the $150,000 Holy Bull S. (G3) on February 4,
the $300,000 Fountain of Youth S. (G2) on March 4, and the $1 million Florida Derby (G1) on
April 1.

Another arrival was CAPE HOPE (Cape
Town), winner of the 2005 Herecomesthebride S. (G3) and Gaily Gaily S. at
Gulfstream Park for trainer Dallas Stewart.

Tuesday’s arrivals will include contingents from trainers Shug McGaughey and
Allen Jerkens while conditioner Nick Zito is expected to ship in 30 horses on
Wednesday.