On Oct. 5, 2019, trainer Brendan Walsh achieved his first Keeneland stakes victory – and his first Grade 1 win of his career – when Godolphin’s Maxfield romped to a 5½-length victory in the Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity. (G1).

Fast forward five years to the day when Godolphin’s East Avenue turned in a similar performance in posting a 5¼-length victory in the 1 1/16-mile race.

Days before the race, Walsh said he would find out how nice a horse East Avenue is. The answer was delivered emphatically.

“He ran great, and it was good to see him get it done,” Walsh said. “There is always a concern going from three-quarters of a mile to two turns, but he showed what kind of horse he is.”

The Claiborne Breeders’ Futurity is a “Win and You’re In” race for the $2 million FanDuel Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1) Presented by Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance on Nov. 1 at Del Mar.

Walsh said he would let the dust settle for a couple of days before finalizing plans to ship to Del Mar.