It’s certainly a marvelous achievement for a horse to reign supreme at the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, but one must cap it off with a victory at the Belmont Stakes to claim the coveted, Triple Crown. Standing as the final race of the celebrated trio, the 2013 Belmont Stakes is set to take place on Saturday, June 8 at Belmont Park Racetrack in Elmont, N.Y. This year marks the 145th running of the race, which pits the world’s finest three-year-old Thoroughbreds against one another for 1.5 thrilling miles. Over the years, the Belmont Stakes has provided some of the sport’s most memorable moments, including Secretariat's amazing 31-length victory in 1973 and Affirmed's completion of the Triple Crown in 1978, which was the last time the feat was accomplished.
In last year's race, Union Rags, jockeyed by John Velazquez and owned by Phyllis M. Wyeth, won with a blistering time of 2:30.42. Union Rags held off charges by Paynter and Atigun for the win, but didn’t have to face off against Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner, I’ll Have Another, as it dropped out due to a leg injury. Belmont Stakes tickets are on sale now, so make sure to claim yours today and be a part of this incredible event.
