Belmont Stakes: The Test of Champions in American Horse Racing

The Belmont Stakes, often called the “Test of the Champion,” stands as the final jewel in horse racing’s Triple Crown. Held annually at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, this prestigious Grade I stakes race challenges three-year-old thoroughbreds over a grueling 1.5-mile distance. With a history stretching back to 1867, the Belmont Stakes has witnessed legendary performances, heartbreaking defeats, and moments that have shaped the sport.

The race’s reputation for difficulty is well-earned. The extended distance pushes horses to their absolute limits, separating champions from contenders. The track’s deep, wide surface at Belmont Park adds another layer of challenge, making it one of the most demanding races in American sports.

The History and Prestige of the Belmont Stakes

Founded by the residents of the Village of Jerome in 1867, the Belmont Stakes predates both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The inaugural running took place at Jerome Park Racetrack, named after Leonard Jerome, the race’s founder and maternal grandfather of Winston Churchill. The race was named in honor of August Belmont Sr., a prominent financier and sportsman who served as the president of the American Jockey Club.

The Belmont Stakes has always occupied a unique position in the racing calendar. Its placement as the final leg of the Triple Crown means it often determines whether a horse will join the exclusive list of champions who have won all three races. The 1.5-mile distance has remained consistent throughout its history, though the race’s early years saw it contested at various distances between 1 mile and 1.5 miles.

Notable winners from the early years include Ruthless (1867), the first filly to win the race, and the legendary Man o’ War (1920), who won by 20 lengths in a performance still discussed today. The Belmont Stakes has also been witness to some of the sport’s most dramatic moments, including the Triple Crown attempts that fell just short.

Memorable Moments and Triple Crown Glory

The Belmont Stakes has provided some of horse racing’s most unforgettable moments. Perhaps none more so than Secretariat’s 1973 performance, widely regarded as the greatest race ever run. The chestnut colt won by 31 lengths, a record that still stands, while setting a world record time that has never been approached. His victory cemented his place among the all-time greats and remains a benchmark for excellence in the sport.

The race has also been the stage for both triumph and heartbreak in Triple Crown attempts. In 1968, Forward Pass won after Dancer’s Image was disqualified, while in 1979, Spectacular Bid suffered an injury that prevented him from competing. More recently, California Chrome (2014) and Justify (2018) successfully completed the Triple Crown, while others like War Emblem (2002) and Smarty Jones (2004) fell short in dramatic fashion.

The Belmont Stakes has also seen its share of surprises. In 1990, 36-1 longshot Go and Go won the race, proving that the Belmont is unpredictable even when the favorites dominate the other legs. More recently, in 2022, the race produced another upset with Mo Donegal winning at 8-1 odds, following the upset of Essential Quality in the 2021 renewal.

Triple Crown Winners at the Belmont Stakes

Only 13 horses have won the Triple Crown, with the Belmont Stakes serving as the ultimate proving ground. The list of champions includes:

• Sir Barton (1919)
• Gallant Fox (1930)
• Omaha (1935)
• War Admiral (1937)
• Whirlaway (1941)
• Count Fleet (1943)
• Assault (1946)
• Citation (1948)
• Secretariat (1973)
• Seattle Slew (1977)
• Affirmed (1978)
• American Pharoah (2015)
• Justify (2018)

Each of these champions left an indelible mark on the sport, with their Belmont victories serving as the climax of their historic campaigns.

The Modern Belmont Stakes and Its Evolving Role

In recent years, the Belmont Stakes has evolved to meet the demands of modern horse racing. The race now offers a $1.5 million purse, making it one of the richest events in the sport. The 2023 renewal saw a record 11-race card at Belmont Park, highlighting the event’s growing significance in the racing calendar.

The Belmont Stakes has also adapted to changes in the racing landscape. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the race was run without spectators for the first time in its history. The event was held behind closed doors at Belmont Park, with strict protocols in place to ensure the safety of participants and staff. Despite the challenges, the race maintained its prestige and produced a memorable winner in Tiz the Law.

The Belmont Stakes has also seen changes in its qualifying process. In 2013, the New York Racing Association introduced the Belmont Stakes Challenge Series, which awards points to horses based on their performances in major prep races. This system has helped to ensure that the field for the Belmont Stakes is competitive and that the race remains a true test of championship caliber.

What Makes the Belmont Stakes Unique

The Belmont Stakes stands apart from other major races in several key ways. Its 1.5-mile distance is the longest of any race in the Triple Crown, making it a true test of stamina and endurance. The race’s position as the final leg of the Triple Crown adds pressure and significance, as horses must prove themselves over the longest distance at the highest level.

The track itself at Belmont Park is another defining factor. Known as the “Big Sandy,” the track’s deep surface can favor horses with tactical speed or those who can overcome the challenges of the deep ground. The wide turns and long stretch also require horses to be well-handled and disciplined, as mistakes can be costly over such a long distance.

The Belmont Stakes also has a unique atmosphere. The race is often referred to as the “Championship of the Turf” and draws a passionate crowd of racing fans. The event’s traditions, including the post parade and the singing of “New York, New York,” add to its appeal and make it a must-see event for sports fans.

The Future of the Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes continues to evolve as the sport of horse racing adapts to new challenges and opportunities. The race remains a key part of the Triple Crown and a defining moment in the careers of the sport’s top three-year-olds. With its rich history, challenging distance, and unique atmosphere, the Belmont Stakes is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of excellence in horse racing.

As the sport looks to the future, the Belmont Stakes will likely continue to play a central role in the racing calendar. The race’s legacy is secure, but its ability to adapt and innovate will ensure that it remains relevant and exciting for generations to come. Whether it’s a Triple Crown attempt, an upset by a longshot, or another record-breaking performance, the Belmont Stakes will always deliver drama and excitement.

For fans of horse racing, the Belmont Stakes is a must-watch event. It’s a chance to witness history in the making and to celebrate the incredible athletes that make the sport so special. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a casual observer, the Belmont Stakes offers something for everyone.

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