Northern Afleet’s multiple graded stakes winner World Approval scampered to a 2 ½-length score in his 2016 debut on Saturday, just missing the Gulfstream Park 1 1/8-mile turf course record while earning a lifetime-best Beyer Speed Figure of 99.

Julien Leparoux took 4-year-old World Approval to the front right at the outset. Smooth Daddy pressured the gray through the first half-mile in :48 1/5, then Jay Gatsby made his run on the turn, but World Approval dispatched them all and sprinted clear coming into the stretch, continuing on powerfully through the final furlong to finish the nine panels in 1:44.98 on a firm turn, just a half-second off the track record.

Winner of the Saranac S. (G3) and American Derby (G3) last year, World Approval upped his mark to 5-0-2 in 11 starts and has earned $418,450.

Homebred World Approval is out of Live Oak’s top mare Win Approval, who has produced the likes of millionaire multiple graded stakes winners Miesque’s Approval, Za Approval and Revved Up.

Recognized as one of the top value sires in North America, Northern Afleet’s influence is felt worldwide this year, with three graded stakes winners internationally in 2016.  He is standing this year at Taylor Made for $6,500 live foal.