Belmont Stakes: The Grand Finale of the Triple Crown at Saratoga






A prestigious five-day racing festival is set to take place from June 4-8, hosted by the New York Racing Association. This event will feature an impressive lineup of 27 stakes races, boasting a total purse value of $11,275,000. Among these, the highlight will undoubtedly be the 157th running of the Belmont Stakes, carrying a prize of $2 million. Traditionally held at Belmont Park, this year’s edition will occur at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York, as Belmont Park undergoes renovations.
The renowned Belmont Stakes serves as the final leg of the Triple Crown series, following the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. This year, it will be held on Saturday, June 7, with post time yet to be determined. Fans can tune in to FOX Sports for live coverage. In addition to the main event, several other notable races will also take place, including the Metropolitan Handicap, Jaipur Stakes, Woody Stephens Stakes, and Manhattan Stakes.
Historically known as the "Test of the Champion" due to its traditional distance of 1 ½ miles, the Belmont Stakes has been shortened to 1 ¼ miles for the second consecutive year as it moves temporarily to Saratoga. Last year's winner, Dornoch, had a unique connection to baseball legend Jayson Werth, one of the horse's co-owners. Looking back, Thunder Gulch was the last horse to win both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes in 1995, while Afleet Alex achieved victory in both the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes in 2005.
This year's festival promises thrilling competition and showcases the enduring allure of horse racing. With so much at stake, all eyes will be on Saratoga Race Course as history unfolds once again. As fans eagerly anticipate the action-packed weekend, the stage is set for another unforgettable chapter in the storied tradition of the Belmont Stakes.
Beyond the excitement of the race itself, this event highlights the rich legacy and evolving nature of one of America's most iconic sporting traditions. The temporary relocation to Saratoga adds a fresh dimension to the proceedings, drawing attention not only to the horses but also to the vibrant community surrounding the sport. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of horse racing, this festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.