Ducduc still sharp at age 8

Ducduc’s sharp form belies his age. The 8-year-old Grade 3 winner has won his last two starts and will attempt to keep rolling Friday in the ninth race at Gulfstream Park West. His task will not be an easy one, however, as Rock Alex figures to go favored one start after running third to Bahamian Squall, who on Monday was pre-entered in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint.

Friday’s feature is a $25,000 optional claimer over seven furlongs and drew eight horses.

KEY CONTENDERS

Ducduc (Last 3 Beyers: 81-85-74)

◗ He will be moving back to the main track for the first time since June, and he has compiled a strong record over the Gulfstream Park West track, formerly known as Calder Race Course. Ducduc is 5 for 21 on the local main track, and when last seen over the surface, he put together three straight wins between May 4 and June 7.

◗ Ducduc is seeking his 17th career win Friday. He has made 62 starts, is a three-time stakes winner, and has earned $420,819.

◗ He will break from the rail for Lisas Racing and trainer Mohamed Jehaludi.

Rock Alex (Last 3 Beyers: 88-84-62)

◗ He hooked a quality rival last out in Grade 2 winner Bahamian Squall, finishing 4 1/2 lengths behind the multiple stakes winner in a $62,500 optional claimer at Gulfstream Park on Oct. 2.

◗ Rock Alex has a reason to move forward in his second start off a layoff of almost three months.

◗ He is a five-time winner over the local strip.

Stallwalkin’ Dude (Last 3 Beyers: 79-78-68)

◗ He was third last out in a $16,000 claimer that has produced four next-out winners, and he was favored in that race at Gulfstream on Sept. 20.

◗ Stallwalkin’ Dude was claimed out of his last start, and Friday will be his first out for owner-trainer David Jacobson.

◗ Jacobson wins at a 26 percent rate the first time off the claim.

Sweet Rocket Man (76-57-70)

◗ He is a half-brother to Black Diamond Cat, a multiple stakes winner and earner of $489,099.