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Better late than never. Juan Eugenio Enriquez, an 18-year-old apprentice jockey, finally received the necessary immigration clearance to leave his native Peru and arrived at Monmouth Park on Saturday morning to begin riding in the United States.

Agent Bruce Golub, who will handle the book for Enriquez, originally planned to have the apprentice here for the start of the meet this past May. Enriquez, the fourth leading rider at Hippodromo de Monterrico in Peru this meet, flew into New York on Friday evening and was being introduced by Golub on the backside early this morning.

Enriquez, who does not yet speak any English, said that he is excited to be here after such a long wait and is raring to get started.

Golub is experienced in launching the American careers of Peruvian riders. He represented Alan Garcia, now one of the top riders in North America, when he was 17, and also booked mounts for Alfredo V. Clemente, who was fifth leading rider at Monmouth in 2006.

Along with Garcia, Edgar Prado, Jorge Chavez and Rafael Bejarano are among the most successful jockeys who have made the switch from Peru to the United States.