The Belmont Stakes, often referred to as the "Test of the Champion," is the third leg of the prestigious Triple Crown series in American Thoroughbred horse racing. The Belmont Stakes, inaugurated in 1867, is held annually at the Belmont Park racetrack in Elmont, New York, on the fifth Saturday after the Kentucky Derby. Known for its grueling 1.5-mile distance, the Belmont Stakes presents a formidable challenge to horses, testing their stamina, speed, and determination. Over the years, some of the most iconic names in horse racing have emerged victorious at Belmont, securing their place in racing history.
The Belmont Stakes is steeped in tradition and holds a special place in the hearts of horse racing enthusiasts worldwide. It is a race that produces captivating moments and unforgettable performances, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. As we delve into the annals of Belmont Stakes history, we will revisit some of the most remarkable victories, showcasing the horses and jockeys who have left an enduring legacy on the racing landscape.
From the early triumphs of Sir Barton in 1919 to the record-breaking achievements of Secretariat in 1973, each Belmont Stakes winner has contributed to the race's rich tapestry. In the following sections, we will unveil the horses and jockeys who have etched their names into the Belmont Stakes record books, celebrating their accomplishments and the unforgettable moments they have provided.
Belmont Stakes Winners
In the annals of horse racing history, the Belmont Stakes stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Thoroughbreds and the brilliance of jockeys. Since its inception in 1867, the Belmont Stakes has crowned numerous champions, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
- Sir Barton (1919): First Triple Crown winner
- Man o' War (1920): The greatest racehorse of all time
- Secretariat (1973): Record-breaking Triple Crown winner
- Seattle Slew (1977): Only undefeated Triple Crown winner
- Affirmed (1978): Upset winner over Alydar
- Easy Goer (1989): Defeated Sunday Silence in a thrilling duel
- A.P. Indy (1992): Dominant winner by over four lengths
- Thunder Gulch (1995): Upset winner at odds of 23-1
- Lemon Drop Kid (1999): Surprise winner over favorites
- Tonalist (2014): Dominant front-running victory
These are just a few of the many horses and jockeys who have triumphed at the Belmont Stakes, securing their place in racing history. The Belmont Stakes continues to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the athleticism, grace, and determination of these magnificent creatures.
Sir Barton (1919): First Triple Crown winner
In the annals of horse racing, Sir Barton's name is etched in gold as the first horse to achieve the elusive Triple Crown, capturing the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in the same year. His victory in the 1919 Belmont Stakes marked a watershed moment in the sport, forever immortalizing him as a legend.
- Unbeaten Champion: Sir Barton entered the Belmont Stakes undefeated in eight career starts, showcasing his exceptional talent and unwavering consistency.
- Dominant Performance: In the Belmont Stakes, Sir Barton displayed his superiority, leading from start to finish and winning by a commanding four lengths. His authoritative victory left no doubt about his dominance.
- Historic Significance: Sir Barton's Triple Crown triumph was a groundbreaking achievement, capturing the imagination of racing fans across the nation. He became a national celebrity and helped elevate the sport of horse racing to new heights.
- Legacy of Excellence: Sir Barton's legacy extends far beyond his Triple Crown victory. He went on to sire numerous successful offspring, passing on his exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit to future generations of Thoroughbreds.
Sir Barton's pioneering accomplishment set the stage for future Triple Crown winners, inspiring generations of horses and jockeys to chase racing's ultimate prize. His name remains synonymous with greatness, forever enshrined in the pantheon of horse racing legends.
Man o' War (1920): The greatest racehorse of all time
In the annals of horse racing, no name shines brighter than Man o' War, the legendary Thoroughbred who captivated the world with his unparalleled brilliance and dominance. His victory in the 1920 Belmont Stakes stands as a testament to his greatness, solidifying his reputation as the greatest racehorse of all time.
From the moment he burst onto the racing scene, Man o' War displayed an extraordinary combination of speed, stamina, and athleticism. He won his first race by an astonishing 10 lengths, setting the tone for a career filled with breathtaking performances. In the Belmont Stakes, Man o' War faced a field of 14 rivals, including several seasoned champions. Undeterred, he surged to the front and never looked back, winning by a record-breaking 20 lengths.
Man o' War's victory in the Belmont Stakes was a tour de force, leaving spectators in awe of his sheer power and grace. He covered the 1.5-mile distance in a blistering 2:14.20, a record that stood for over 40 years. His performance that day cemented his status as a true equine superstar, earning him the title of "Big Red" for his majestic chestnut coat.
Beyond his remarkable racing career, Man o' War left a lasting legacy on the sport. He became a sought-after sire, passing on his exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit to his offspring. His descendants have gone on to achieve great success on the racetrack, further solidifying his impact on the Thoroughbred breed.
Man o' War's greatness transcended the boundaries of horse racing. He became a national icon, capturing the hearts of millions with his extraordinary feats. His name remains synonymous with excellence and is forever etched in the annals of sporting history.
Secretariat (1973): Record-breaking Triple Crown winner
In the annals of horse racing, Secretariat stands alone as one of the greatest and most iconic Thoroughbreds of all time. His victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes was a crowning achievement in a career marked by unparalleled speed, stamina, and dominance.
- Unprecedented Triple Crown Victory: Secretariat's Belmont Stakes triumph was the culmination of a historic Triple Crown sweep, a feat that had not been accomplished in 25 years. He won the Kentucky Derby by 31 lengths, the Preakness Stakes by 31 lengths, and the Belmont Stakes by an astonishing 31 lengths, setting a new world record for the 1.5-mile distance.
- Record-Breaking Performance: Secretariat's time of 2:24 in the Belmont Stakes shattered the previous record by over two seconds. His performance was so extraordinary that it earned him the nickname "Big Red," and he became a national sensation.
- Thrilling Duel with Sham: The 1973 Belmont Stakes featured a captivating duel between Secretariat and his rival, Sham. The two horses battled stride for stride in the early stages of the race, but Secretariat's superior speed and stamina eventually prevailed.
- Legacy of Greatness: Secretariat's Triple Crown victory cemented his place as one of the greatest racehorses of all time. He retired to stud after his racing career and became a highly successful sire, passing on his exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit to his offspring.
Secretariat's impact on horse racing was profound. He inspired a new generation of fans and helped elevate the sport to new heights of popularity. His name remains synonymous with excellence and his legacy continues to inspire Thoroughbreds and racing enthusiasts to this day.
Seattle Slew (1977): Only undefeated Triple Crown winner
In the pantheon of Thoroughbred racing legends, Seattle Slew holds a unique and prestigious place as the only undefeated Triple Crown winner. His victory in the 1977 Belmont Stakes was the crowning achievement in a remarkable career that showcased his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and unparalleled athleticism.
Seattle Slew's path to the Triple Crown was marked by dominance and brilliance. He won his first seven career starts by an average margin of over nine lengths, including victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. In the Belmont Stakes, Seattle Slew faced a field of 10 rivals, including several talented and experienced horses. Undeterred, he surged to the front and never looked back, winning by a commanding four lengths.
Seattle Slew's Belmont Stakes victory was a historic moment in horse racing. He became the first undefeated Triple Crown winner since Citation in 1948, and his performance earned him the nickname "Slewacide" for his ruthless demolition of the competition. His victory also captured the imagination of the American public, making him a national celebrity and a symbol of equine excellence.
Seattle Slew's legacy extends far beyond his Triple Crown triumph. He went on to win several other major races, including the Marlboro Cup Invitational Handicap and the Woodward Stakes. He retired to stud in 1978 and became a highly successful sire, passing on his exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit to his offspring. His descendants have gone on to achieve great success on the racetrack, further solidifying his impact on the Thoroughbred breed.
Seattle Slew's undefeated Triple Crown victory stands as a testament to his greatness and remains one of the most remarkable achievements in the history of horse racing. He is a true icon of the sport and his name will forever be etched in the annals of racing lore.
Affirmed (1978): Upset winner over Alydar
The 1978 Belmont Stakes is remembered as one of the most thrilling and dramatic races in the history of the Triple Crown. Affirmed, a talented but enigmatic colt, faced off against his arch-rival, Alydar, in a highly anticipated showdown. The race would determine not only the winner of the Triple Crown, but also the legacy of these two exceptional horses.
- Epic Rivalry: Affirmed and Alydar had engaged in a fierce rivalry throughout their careers, with each horse winning major races and demonstrating their incredible talent. The Belmont Stakes would be the culmination of their epic battle, and the tension was palpable.
- Upset Victory: Affirmed entered the Belmont Stakes as a slight underdog to Alydar, who was considered the more consistent and reliable runner. However, Affirmed surprised the racing world with a stunning upset, winning by a neck in a thrilling stretch duel.
- Heart-stopping Finish: The final moments of the race were filled with drama and suspense. Affirmed and Alydar battled stride for stride, with neither horse willing to concede defeat. In the end, it was Affirmed who prevailed by a nose, securing his place in history as the Triple Crown winner.
- Legacy of Greatness: Affirmed's victory in the Belmont Stakes cemented his status as one of the greatest racehorses of his generation. He went on to win several other major races and retired to stud as a highly successful sire. Despite his untimely death in 2001, Affirmed's legacy continues to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts to this day.
The 1978 Belmont Stakes will forever be remembered for the epic duel between Affirmed and Alydar, two exceptional horses who pushed each other to the limits of their abilities. Affirmed's upset victory stands as a testament to his determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
Easy Goer (1989): Defeated Sunday Silence in a thrilling duel
The 1989 Belmont Stakes was a showdown between two of the most talented and evenly matched horses in Thoroughbred racing history: Easy Goer and Sunday Silence. The race lived up to its billing, delivering one of the most thrilling and memorable duels in the history of the Triple Crown.
Easy Goer, trained by Shug McGaughey, had already won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, setting him up for a chance at the Triple Crown. Sunday Silence, trained by Charlie Whittingham, was a formidable challenger who had won the Breeders' Cup Juvenile and Santa Anita Derby. Both horses had exceptional speed, stamina, and competitive spirit, making the Belmont Stakes a highly anticipated event.
On a rain-soaked track, Easy Goer and Sunday Silence battled for the lead from the start. They dueled stride for stride, with neither horse willing to concede an inch. The crowd roared with excitement as the two horses thundered down the stretch, their jockeys urging them on to the finish line.
In a heart-stopping finish, Easy Goer prevailed by a nose, securing his place in history as the 11th Triple Crown winner. The victory was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication by McGaughey, jockey Pat Day, and the entire Easy Goer team. It was also a bittersweet moment, as Sunday Silence's defeat denied him the Triple Crown, but solidified his status as one of the greatest horses of his generation.
The 1989 Belmont Stakes will forever be remembered for the epic duel between Easy Goer and Sunday Silence. It was a race that showcased the extraordinary athleticism, determination, and competitive spirit of these two exceptional horses, and it remains one of the most iconic moments in the history of Thoroughbred racing.
A.P. Indy (1992): Dominant winner by over four lengths
In the annals of the Belmont Stakes, A.P. Indy's victory in 1992 stands out as a display of sheer dominance and athletic brilliance. Trained by Neil Drysdale and ridden by jockey Eddie Delahoussaye, A.P. Indy entered the race as the heavy favorite after winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in impressive fashion.
From the start of the Belmont Stakes, A.P. Indy asserted his authority, taking the lead and setting a blistering pace. His rivals struggled to keep up as he opened up a commanding lead. A.P. Indy maintained his powerful stride throughout the race, leaving the field in his wake. In the final stretch, he surged forward, crossing the finish line over four lengths ahead of the second-place finisher.
A.P. Indy's victory in the Belmont Stakes was a resounding statement of his exceptional talent. His performance earned him the nickname "Super Indy" and cemented his status as one of the greatest racehorses of his generation. His victory also made him the first horse since Affirmed in 1978 to win the Triple Crown, further enhancing his legacy in the sport.
A.P. Indy's dominance in the Belmont Stakes was a testament to his superior speed, stamina, and racing intelligence. He proved himself to be a true champion, capable of overcoming any challenge and achieving greatness on the biggest stage.
A.P. Indy's victory in the Belmont Stakes remains one of the most dominant performances in the history of the race. His name is forever etched in the record books, and his legacy continues to inspire and captivate racing enthusiasts to this day.
Thunder Gulch (1995): Upset winner at odds of 23-1
In the 1995 Belmont Stakes, Thunder Gulch shocked the racing world with a stunning upset victory at odds of 23-1. Trained by Nick Zito and ridden by jockey Mike E. Smith, Thunder Gulch entered the race as a long shot, with little fanfare or expectations.
From the start, Thunder Gulch displayed his determination and fighting spirit. He broke quickly from the gate and settled into a stalking position behind the early leaders. As the race progressed, Thunder Gulch gradually moved up in contention, picking off rivals one by one.
In the final stretch, Thunder Gulch unleashed a powerful closing kick, surging past the leaders and taking command of the race. He held off a late challenge from Unbridled's Song to win by a neck, securing one of the biggest upsets in Belmont Stakes history.
Thunder Gulch's victory was a testament to his heart, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. He proved that even the longest of odds can be overcome with determination and a never-say-die attitude.
Thunder Gulch's upset victory in the Belmont Stakes remains one of the most memorable moments in the race's history. His name is forever etched in the record books as a symbol of hope and inspiration, proving that anything is possible in the world of horse racing.
Lemon Drop Kid (1999): Surprise winner over favorites
In the 1999 Belmont Stakes, Lemon Drop Kid pulled off a stunning upset, defeating heavily favored runners to claim victory at odds of 10-1. Trained by Scotty Schulhofer and ridden by jockey Jorge F. Chavez, Lemon Drop Kid entered the race as an unlikely contender, with little national recognition.
- Unlikely Contender: Lemon Drop Kid was not considered a major threat in the Belmont Stakes. He had won only one graded stakes race prior to the Belmont and was largely overlooked by racing experts and bettors.
- Patient Ride: Jockey Jorge F. Chavez displayed exceptional patience and tactical skill aboard Lemon Drop Kid. He kept the horse settled in mid-pack early on, conserving his energy for a late charge.
- Powerful Closing Kick: In the final stretch, Lemon Drop Kid unleashed a devastating closing kick, surging past the leaders and taking command of the race. He showed tremendous acceleration and stamina, leaving his rivals in his wake.
- Upset Victory: Lemon Drop Kid crossed the finish line a length ahead of the favored runners, shocking the racing world. His victory was one of the biggest upsets in Belmont Stakes history and solidified his status as a true champion.
Lemon Drop Kid's upset victory in the Belmont Stakes is a reminder that anything is possible in the world of horse racing. With a combination of talent, determination, and a well-executed race plan, even the longest of shots can overcome the odds and achieve greatness.
Tonalist (2014): Dominant front-running victory
In the 2014 Belmont Stakes, Tonalist displayed his exceptional talent and unwavering determination to secure a dominant front-running victory. Trained by Christophe Clement and ridden by jockey Joel Rosario, Tonalist entered the race as one of the favorites, but his performance exceeded even the highest expectations.
From the start, Tonalist asserted his authority, taking the lead and setting a brisk pace. He maintained a commanding advantage throughout the race, dictating the terms to his rivals. His powerful stride and relentless pace proved too much for the other horses, who struggled to keep up.
As the race progressed, Tonalist continued to increase his lead, leaving the field in his wake. He turned the Belmont Stakes into a one-horse show, showcasing his stamina, speed, and unwavering focus. In the final stretch, he crossed the finish line over six lengths ahead of the second-place finisher, securing one of the most dominant victories in recent Belmont Stakes history.
Tonalist's front-running victory in the Belmont Stakes was a testament to his exceptional talent and the brilliant ride by jockey Joel Rosario. His performance earned him the nickname "The Closer" and solidified his status as one of the top racehorses of his generation.
Tonalist's dominant victory in the Belmont Stakes remains one of the most impressive performances in the race's history. His name is forever etched in the record books as a symbol of power, determination, and athletic excellence.
FAQ
Have questions about the Belmont Stakes winners? We've got answers!
Question 1: Who was the first horse to win the Belmont Stakes?
Answer: Sir Barton, in 1919.
Question 2: Which horse has won the Belmont Stakes the most times?
Answer: There is no horse that has won the Belmont Stakes more than once.
Question 3: Who was the only undefeated Triple Crown winner?
Answer: Seattle Slew, in 1977.
Question 4: Which horse won the Belmont Stakes by the largest margin?
Answer: Secretariat, in 1973, by 31 lengths.
Question 5: Who was the biggest upset winner in Belmont Stakes history?
Answer: Lemon Drop Kid, in 1999, at odds of 10-1.
Question 6: Which horse won the Belmont Stakes in a thrilling duel?
Answer: Easy Goer, in 1989, defeated Sunday Silence in a nose-to-nose finish.
Question 7: Who was the most recent Belmont Stakes winner?
Answer: Mo Donegal, in 2022.
We hope these answers satisfy your curiosity about the Belmont Stakes winners. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!
Now that you know more about the Belmont Stakes winners, here are some additional tips to enhance your enjoyment of this historic race:
Tips
Want to get the most out of your Belmont Stakes experience? Here are some practical tips to help you enjoy the race like a pro:
Tip 1: Do your research:
Familiarize yourself with the horses, jockeys, and trainers involved in the race. Read up on their past performances, recent form, and any relevant news or insights. This knowledge will help you make more informed betting decisions and appreciate the race dynamics better.
Tip 2: Arrive early:
The Belmont Stakes is a popular event, so it's best to arrive early to avoid long lines and secure a good spot to watch the race. This will also give you time to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy the pre-race festivities, and place your bets.
Tip 3: Dress comfortably:
The Belmont Stakes is a day-long event, so make sure you wear comfortable clothing and footwear. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or raincoat just in case. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Tip 4: Enjoy the atmosphere:
The Belmont Stakes is more than just a horse race; it's a social event and a celebration of the sport. Take some time to enjoy the atmosphere, mingle with fellow racing enthusiasts, and soak in the excitement. Make memories that will last a lifetime.
Tip 5: Bet responsibly:
If you choose to bet on the race, remember to do so responsibly. Set a budget and stick to it. Don't chase losses, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Gambling should be seen as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
By following these tips, you can enhance your Belmont Stakes experience and make the most of this historic event.
Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, the Belmont Stakes offers an unforgettable experience. So gather your friends, dress up, and head to the track to witness the thrill of the Triple Crown's final leg. Good luck, and may the best horse win!
Conclusion
The Belmont Stakes, the third leg of the Triple Crown, is a race steeped in history, tradition, and excitement. Throughout the years, it has witnessed some of the greatest horses and jockeys grace its track, delivering unforgettable performances that have captivated racing enthusiasts worldwide.
From Sir Barton's groundbreaking Triple Crown victory in 1919 to Secretariat's record-shattering run in 1973, from Seattle Slew's undefeated Triple Crown sweep in 1977 to Affirmed's thrilling upset over Alydar in 1978, the Belmont Stakes has produced iconic moments that will forever be etched in racing lore.
More recent winners like Easy Goer, A.P. Indy, Thunder Gulch, Lemon Drop Kid, Tonalist, and Mo Donegal have continued to add to the Belmont Stakes' legacy of excellence, showcasing the extraordinary athleticism and competitive spirit of Thoroughbreds.
The Belmont Stakes is more than just a horse race; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings people together from all walks of life to celebrate the beauty and majesty of these magnificent animals. It is a day of fashion, socializing, and shared experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
As we look forward to future Belmont Stakes, we can be sure that it will continue to captivate and inspire, producing new legends and unforgettable moments that will add to the rich tapestry of this historic race.
So whether you're a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, make sure to tune in to the Belmont Stakes and witness the spectacle of Thoroughbred racing at its finest. The Belmont Stakes is a celebration of the human-animal bond, a testament to the athleticism and grace of these incredible creatures, and a reminder of the enduring power of sport to bring people together.