Who's the Champion: The Victorious Steed of the Belmont Stakes

In the realm of Thoroughbred horse racing, the Belmont Stakes stands as a celebrated jewel in the Triple Crown, a trio of prestigious races that test the prowess of three-year-old equine athletes. Held annually at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, the Belmont Stakes is renowned as the third and final leg of the Triple Crown. As the culmination of a grueling quest for greatness, the Belmont Stakes attracts widespread attention and captivates the hearts of racing enthusiasts worldwide.

The Belmont Stakes boasts a rich history dating back to 1867, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious horse races in the United States. Over the years, the Belmont Stakes has witnessed numerous iconic moments and legendary victories. Some of the most celebrated triumphs include the record-breaking performances of Secretariat, the 1973 Triple Crown winner who won the Belmont Stakes by an astonishing 31 lengths, and Affirmed, the 1978 Triple Crown champion who overcame a valiant challenge from Alydar.

While the Belmont Stakes holds a prominent place in the annals of racing history, it is the individual stories of the horses and jockeys who have triumphed in this esteemed event that truly captivate the imagination. These are the tales of unwavering determination, athleticism, and the unbreakable bond between horse and rider. As we delve deeper into the history of the Belmont Stakes, we will uncover the compelling narratives behind some of the most memorable victories in the race's storied past.

Who Won Belmont

Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, has witnessed many legendary victories. Here are 9 notable winners:

• Sir Barton (1919)
• Man o' War (1920)
• Gallant Fox (1930)
• Whirlaway (1941)
• Citation (1948)
• Secretariat (1973)
• Affirmed (1978)
• Easy Goer (1989)
• American Pharoah (2015)

These exceptional horses and their victories continue to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts.

Sir Barton (1919)

In the annals of the Belmont Stakes, the name Sir Barton stands tall as the inaugural victor of the Triple Crown. This remarkable chestnut colt, foaled in 1916, captured the hearts of racing enthusiasts with his exceptional speed and unwavering determination. Owned by J.K.L. Ross and trained by H. Guy Bedwell, Sir Barton embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever etch his name in the history books.

Sir Barton's path to Belmont Park was marked by a series of impressive victories. He began his three-year-old campaign with a commanding win in the Kentucky Derby, becoming the first horse to win the "Run for the Roses" at Churchill Downs. From there, he traveled to Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, where he faced a field of talented rivals in the Preakness Stakes. Despite the challenging conditions of a muddy track, Sir Barton displayed his class and determination, securing his second jewel of the Triple Crown.

The stage was set for the Belmont Stakes, the final and most grueling leg of the Triple Crown. On a sweltering June afternoon, a crowd of over 40,000 spectators gathered at Belmont Park, eager to witness history in the making. Sir Barton, carrying the hopes and dreams of countless fans, lined up against a field of eight competitors. Jockey Johnny Loftus settled Sir Barton into a comfortable position, confident in the colt's ability to rise to the occasion.

As the gates opened, Sir Barton exploded from the starting gate, determined to seize the moment. He quickly established a commanding lead, his powerful strides eating up the ground beneath him. Throughout the race, Sir Barton maintained his advantage, repelling every challenge from his rivals. Crossing the finish line, Sir Barton secured his place in history, becoming the first horse to capture the coveted Triple Crown.

Sir Barton's victory at Belmont Park was a watershed moment in Thoroughbred racing. It marked the beginning of a new era, where the Triple Crown became the ultimate test of a horse's greatness. Sir Barton's legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts, forever remembered as the trailblazing champion who conquered the Belmont Stakes and etched his name into the annals of racing history.

Man o' War (1920)

In the pantheon of Thoroughbred greats, few names shine brighter than Man o' War, the legendary chestnut colt who graced the racing world with his unparalleled brilliance. Foaled in 1917 at Nursery Stud in Lexington, Kentucky, Man o' War quickly captured the attention of horsemen and racing enthusiasts alike with his exceptional physique and athleticism.

Owned by Samuel D. Riddle and trained by Louis Feustel, Man o' War embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport. In his three-year-old campaign, he displayed an astonishing dominance that had rarely been witnessed before. He won all nine of his starts, including the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, in record-breaking fashion.

The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, was the stage for Man o' War's crowning achievement. On a sweltering June afternoon in 1920, a crowd of over 50,000 spectators packed Belmont Park, eager to witness the colt's attempt at racing immortality. Jockey Clarence Kummer settled Man o' War into a comfortable position, confident in the colt's ability to deliver a performance for the ages.

As the gates opened, Man o' War exploded from the starting gate, leaving his rivals in his wake. He quickly established a commanding lead, his powerful strides eating up the ground beneath him. Throughout the race, Man o' War maintained his advantage, repelling every challenge from his rivals. Crossing the finish line, Man o' War had secured his place in history, becoming only the second horse to capture the coveted Triple Crown.

Man o' War's victory at Belmont Park was a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering determination. He was hailed as the greatest racehorse of all time, a title he holds to this day. His legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts, forever remembered as the "Big Red Horse" who conquered the Belmont Stakes and cemented his status as a true legend of the sport.

Gallant Fox (1930)

In the annals of racing history, Gallant Fox stands tall as a symbol of courage, determination, and unwavering spirit. Foaled in 1927 at Belair Stud in Maryland, this chestnut colt was bred for greatness. Owned by William Woodward and trained by James Fitzsimmons, Gallant Fox embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

Gallant Fox's three-year-old campaign was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering resolve. He won nine of his eleven starts, including the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, in dominant fashion. His only defeat came in the Withers Stakes, where he was narrowly beaten by his stablemate, Equipoise. However, Gallant Fox would exact revenge on Equipoise in the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown.

On a sweltering June afternoon in 1930, a crowd of over 80,000 spectators packed Belmont Park, eager to witness history in the making. Gallant Fox, ridden by Earl Sande, faced a field of eight rivals, including his nemesis, Equipoise. As the gates opened, Gallant Fox broke sharply and settled into a comfortable position behind the early leaders.

As the race progressed, Gallant Fox began to make his move. He surged to the front of the pack and engaged in a thrilling duel with Equipoise. The two colts battled stride for stride, pushing each other to their limits. In the end, it was Gallant Fox who prevailed, crossing the finish line a neck ahead of his rival. With that victory, Gallant Fox became the third horse to capture the coveted Triple Crown.

Gallant Fox's victory at Belmont Park was a triumph of heart and determination. He overcame adversity and proved himself to be a true champion. His legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts, forever remembered as the "Fox" who conquered the Belmont Stakes and etched his name into the annals of racing history.

Whirlaway (1941)

Whirlaway, the "Kentucky Comet," blazed across the racing world with his exceptional speed and unwavering determination. Foaled in 1938 at Calumet Farm in Kentucky, this chestnut colt was bred for greatness. Owned by Calumet Farm and trained by Ben Jones, Whirlaway embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

• Dominant Three-Year-Old Season:
  

  Whirlaway's three-year-old campaign was nothing short of dominant. He won nine of his eleven starts, including the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, in record-breaking fashion. His only defeats came in the Wood Memorial Stakes and the Withers Stakes, where he finished second and third, respectively.

• Unforgettable Belmont Stakes Victory:
  

  The Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, was the stage for Whirlaway's crowning achievement. On a sweltering June afternoon in 1941, a crowd of over 60,000 spectators packed Belmont Park, eager to witness history in the making. Whirlaway, ridden by Eddie Arcaro, faced a field of seven rivals, including his nemesis, Shut Out.

• Thrilling Duel with Shut Out:
  

  As the gates opened, Whirlaway broke sharply and settled into a comfortable position behind the early leaders. Shut Out, however, was determined to challenge the "Kentucky Comet." The two colts engaged in a thrilling duel throughout the race, pushing each other to their limits. In the end, it was Whirlaway who prevailed, crossing the finish line a neck ahead of Shut Out. With that victory, Whirlaway became the sixth horse to capture the coveted Triple Crown.

• Legacy of Greatness:
  

  Whirlaway's victory at Belmont Park cemented his status as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. He went on to win several more prestigious races, including the Travers Stakes and the Jockey Club Gold Cup. His exceptional speed and unwavering determination made him a fan favorite and a true legend of the sport.

Whirlaway's legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. He is remembered as the "Kentucky Comet" who conquered the Belmont Stakes and etched his name into the annals of racing history.

Citation (1948)

Citation, the "Calumet Comet," was a Thoroughbred racehorse who captured the hearts of racing enthusiasts with his exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination. Foaled in 1945 at Calumet Farm in Kentucky, this chestnut colt was bred for greatness. Owned by Calumet Farm and trained by Ben Jones, Citation embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

• Unbeaten Two-Year-Old Season:
  

  Citation's two-year-old campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. He won all 19 of his starts, including the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes and the Pimlico Futurity, in dominant fashion. His undefeated season earned him the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Two-Year-Old Male Horse.

• Triple Crown Victory:
  

  In his three-year-old season, Citation continued his winning ways. He captured the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes in convincing fashion, becoming the eighth horse to win the coveted Triple Crown. His Belmont Stakes victory was particularly impressive, as he won by a record-breaking 31 lengths.

• Record-Breaking Performances:
  

  Citation's speed and athleticism were truly remarkable. He set numerous track records throughout his career, including the world record for one mile on dirt (1:33.20). His performances earned him the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Three-Year-Old Male Horse and the Horse of the Year Award.

• Legacy of Greatness:
  

  Citation's racing career was cut short by injury, but his impact on the sport of Thoroughbred racing was profound. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1959 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination continue to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts.

Citation's legacy extends beyond his racing accomplishments. He was a symbol of hope and resilience during a challenging time in American history. His victories brought joy to millions of people and helped to unite the nation.

Secretariat (1973)

Secretariat, the "Big Red," was a Thoroughbred racehorse who captured the imagination of the world with his breathtaking speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination. Foaled in 1970 at Meadow Stable in Virginia, this chestnut colt was bred for greatness. Owned by Meadow Stable and trained by Lucien Laurin, Secretariat embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

• Unprecedented Triple Crown Victory:
  

  Secretariat's three-year-old campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. He won the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes in record-breaking fashion, becoming the first horse to win the Triple Crown in 25 years. His Belmont Stakes victory was particularly impressive, as he won by a record-breaking 31 lengths, a margin that still stands today.

• Record-Breaking Performances:
  

  Secretariat's speed and athleticism were truly remarkable. He set numerous track records throughout his career, including the world record for one mile on dirt (1:34.40). His performances earned him the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Three-Year-Old Male Horse and the Horse of the Year Award.

• Cultural Icon:
  

  Secretariat's impact extended far beyond the racetrack. He became a cultural icon, appearing on the covers of magazines and newspapers and even inspiring a popular song. His story of triumph and resilience captured the hearts of millions of people around the world.

• Legacy of Greatness:
  

  Secretariat's racing career was cut short by injury, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1974 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination continue to captivate and amaze racing fans to this day.

Secretariat's victory at the Belmont Stakes in 1973 remains one of the most iconic moments in the history of Thoroughbred racing. His record-breaking performance and his indomitable spirit continue to inspire and amaze racing enthusiasts around the world.

Affirmed (1978)

Affirmed, the "Grey Ghost," was a Thoroughbred racehorse who overcame adversity and质疑 to become one of the most celebrated champions in the history of the sport. Foaled in 1975 at Spendthrift Farm in Kentucky, this gray colt was bred for greatness. Owned by Louis and Patrice Wolfson and trained by Laz Barrera, Affirmed embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

• Triple Crown Victory:
  

  Affirmed's three-year-old campaign was marked by both triumph and adversity. He won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes in convincing fashion, but he faced a stiff challenge from Alydar in both races. In the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown, Affirmed and Alydar engaged in a thrilling duel, with Affirmed ultimately prevailing by a neck. With that victory, Affirmed became the eleventh horse to win the coveted Triple Crown.

• Rivalry with Alydar:
  

  Affirmed's rivalry with Alydar is one of the most storied in the history of Thoroughbred racing. The two horses met seven times on the racetrack, with Affirmed winning five of those encounters. Their duels were always fiercely competitive and captured the imagination of racing fans around the world.

• Overcoming Adversity:
  

  Affirmed's Triple Crown victory was particularly remarkable considering the adversity he faced throughout his career. He suffered from a variety of physical ailments, including a foot injury and a virus. Despite these challenges, Affirmed persevered and ultimately achieved greatness.

• Legacy of Greatness:
  

  Affirmed's racing career ended prematurely due to injury, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1985 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination continue to captivate and amaze racing fans to this day.

Affirmed's victory at the Belmont Stakes in 1978 was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. He overcame adversity and质疑 to achieve greatness, cementing his place in the annals of racing history.

Easy Goer (1989)

Easy Goer, the "Grey Ghost," was a Thoroughbred racehorse who captured the hearts of racing enthusiasts with his exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination. Foaled in 1986 at Ogden Phipps' Wheatley Stable in Kentucky, this gray colt was bred for greatness. Owned by Ogden Phipps and trained by Shug McGaughey, Easy Goer embarked on a racing career that would leave an indelible mark on the sport.

• Triple Crown Near Miss:
  

  Easy Goer's three-year-old campaign was marked by both triumph and disappointment. He won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes in convincing fashion, but he was defeated by Sunday Silence in the Belmont Stakes, the final leg of the Triple Crown. Despite the setback, Easy Goer's performances throughout the season earned him the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Three-Year-Old Male Horse.

• Rivalry with Sunday Silence:
  

  Easy Goer's rivalry with Sunday Silence is one of the most storied in the history of Thoroughbred racing. The two horses met four times on the racetrack, with each horse winning two of those encounters. Their duels were always fiercely competitive and captured the imagination of racing fans around the world.

• Exceptional Speed and Athleticism:
  

  Easy Goer was renowned for his exceptional speed and athleticism. He set numerous track records throughout his career, including the world record for one mile on turf (1:32.20). His performances earned him the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Male Turf Horse in 1990.

• Legacy of Greatness:
  

  Easy Goer's racing career ended prematurely due to injury, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1997 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination continue to captivate and amaze racing fans to this day.

Easy Goer's victory in the Belmont Stakes may have eluded him, but his exceptional talent and unwavering determination ensured that he would forever be remembered as one of the greatest racehorses of his generation.

American Pharoah (2015)

In the annals of Thoroughbred racing, American Pharoah stands tall as a symbol of greatness, determination, and the enduring allure of the Triple Crown. Foaled in 2012 at Ashford Stud in Kentucky, this bay colt was bred for success. Owned by Ahmed Zayat and trained by Bob Baffert, American Pharoah embarked on a racing career that would culminate in one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of the sport.

American Pharoah's three-year-old campaign was a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering resolve. He won the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes in dominant fashion, becoming the first horse in 37 years to capture the coveted Triple Crown. His Belmont Stakes victory was particularly impressive, as he won by a record-breaking 5 1/2 lengths, the largest margin of victory in the race's history.

American Pharoah's Triple Crown victory was a watershed moment in Thoroughbred racing. It captured the imagination of fans around the world and brought renewed attention to the sport. His exceptional speed, athleticism, and unwavering determination made him a true champion and a symbol of hope in a challenging time.

American Pharoah's racing career ended prematurely due to injury, but his legacy continues to inspire generations of racing enthusiasts. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2020 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. His exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and the indelible mark he left on the sport ensure that American Pharoah will forever be remembered as a true legend of Thoroughbred racing.

American Pharoah's victory at the Belmont Stakes in 2015 was a triumph of heart, determination, and athleticism. He overcame adversity and质疑 to achieve greatness, cementing his place in the annals of racing history as one of the greatest horses of all time.

FAQ

Have questions about the Belmont Stakes and its legendary winners? Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

We hope these answers have shed light on some of the most common questions surrounding the Belmont Stakes. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to explore additional resources or reach out to experts in the field of Thoroughbred racing.

As you delve deeper into the world of the Belmont Stakes and its storied history, you may be interested in exploring some additional tips and insights to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this iconic race.

Tips

Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast or new to the world of the Belmont Stakes, here are a few practical tips to enhance your enjoyment and understanding of this iconic event:

Tip 1: Study the Form:
Before the race, take some time to study the form of each horse. This includes their past performances, jockey, and trainer. This information can help you make informed decisions about which horses to watch and potentially wager on.

Tip 2: Understand the Track:
The Belmont Stakes is run on a 1 1/2-mile oval track. Familiarize yourself with the track's characteristics, such as its length, width, and any potential biases. This knowledge can help you better evaluate the horses' chances of success.

Tip 3: Consider the Weather:
The weather conditions on race day can significantly impact the outcome of the Belmont Stakes. Rain can make the track muddy, favoring horses with experience on off-track conditions. Hot and humid weather can also affect the horses' performance.

Tip 4: Enjoy the Atmosphere:
The Belmont Stakes is more than just a race; it's a social event and a celebration of Thoroughbred racing. Take some time to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the fashion, and engage with fellow racing enthusiasts. The Belmont Stakes is an excellent opportunity to make memories and connect with the rich history of the sport.

We hope these tips have provided you with some insights and strategies for getting the most out of your Belmont Stakes experience. Whether you're watching from home or attending the race in person, we wish you an enjoyable and memorable day filled with the excitement and thrill of Thoroughbred racing.

As the Belmont Stakes draws closer, we encourage you to continue your exploration of this historic race. Delve deeper into the stories of the legendary horses and jockeys who have triumphed at Belmont Park, and immerse yourself in the traditions and culture surrounding this iconic event.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the Belmont Stakes and the legendary horses who have triumphed at this historic race, we are reminded of the enduring power of athleticism, determination, and the human spirit. From Sir Barton's inaugural victory in 1919 to American Pharoah's record-breaking performance in 2015, the Belmont Stakes has witnessed some of the greatest moments in Thoroughbred racing history.

The Belmont Stakes is more than just a race; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings people together from all walks of life. It is a celebration of the beauty and grace of these magnificent animals and a testament to the skill and dedication of the jockeys and trainers who guide them to victory. Whether you're a seasoned racing enthusiast or new to the sport, the Belmont Stakes is an event that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

As we bid farewell to another thrilling edition of the Belmont Stakes, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in its storied history. The quest for the Triple Crown will continue to inspire and captivate racing fans worldwide, and the Belmont Stakes will remain a symbol of excellence and achievement in the world of Thoroughbred racing.

We hope this journey through the history of the Belmont Stakes and its legendary winners has enriched your understanding and appreciation of this iconic event. May the Belmont Stakes continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.