The racing world is mourning the loss of Afleet Alex, the beloved dual classic winner and champion who captured hearts both on and off the track. The 24-year-old stallion was humanely euthanized on Feb. 6 due to the infirmities of old age. The announcement was made Thursday by Gainesway Farm, where he stood throughout his stud career, and Cash Is King LLC, which campaigned him during his racing days.
Afleet Alex rose to national prominence in 2005 with unforgettable performances in the Triple Crown series, including dramatic victories in the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. His courage and determination were never more evident than during the Preakness, when he stumbled badly in the stretch yet recovered to surge past his rivals in one of the most remarkable moments in racing history.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Afleet Alex became a symbol of hope through his connection to pediatric cancer research. During his racing career, his team partnered with charitable initiatives supporting children battling cancer, turning his success on the track into meaningful impact off it.
Following retirement, Afleet Alex enjoyed a successful stud career at Gainesway Farm in Kentucky, siring multiple graded stakes winners and passing on his grit and talent to a new generation.
Though his passing marks the end of an era, Afleet Alex’s legacy endures — as a champion racehorse, a resilient competitor, and a beacon of compassion whose story continues to inspire fans worldwide.