The Belmont Stakes, presented by NYRA Bets, is not just the final leg of the Triple Crown but an event with a rich history and exciting facts. As we gear up for a thrilling day of racing at Belmont Park in New York, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to know. From the horses that compete to the traditions and betting opportunities, let’s delve into the world of the Belmont Stakes.
Elite 3-year-old Thoroughbreds
The Belmont Stakes presents an extraordinary chance for 3-year-old Thoroughbred horses, an opportunity unlike any other. Every year, countless Thoroughbreds are born, but only a solitary champion can claim victory at the Belmont Stakes. Although both male and female horses are eligible to compete, this illustrious race has witnessed the triumph of only three exceptional fillies. In the annals of the Belmont Stakes, the names of Ruthless in the year 1867, Tanya in the year 1905, and Rags to Riches in the year 2007 are forever immortalized, marking their indelible imprint on this prestigious event.
Test of the Champion
The Belmont Stakes has earned its reputation as the “Test of the Champion” due to its demanding nature. The race stretches a mile and a half, making it the longest among the Triple Crown races.
This challenging distance has proven to be a formidable hurdle for many contenders, with only 13 horses managing to win the coveted Triple Crown out of the 35 that arrived at Belmont Park with victories in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.
Date and Location
Traditionally, the Belmont Stakes take place on Saturday, June 10, following a three-week interval after the Preakness Stakes. However, due to the unprecedented circumstances of 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Belmont Stakes served as the opening leg of the Triple Crown that year.
Located in Belmont Park, situated at the junction of Queens and Nassau counties in New York, attending the race is convenient with ample parking and easy access via subway or the Long Island Railroad. Ride-share apps also provide a hassle-free transportation option.
New York History
With its roots dating back to 1867, the Belmont Stakes holds a significant place in New York’s history. Over the years, the location of the race has been shifted multiple times within various parts of New York City and its surrounding suburbs. Initially held at Jerome Park in the Bronx, it later found its home at Morris Park until 1905.
Since then, the race has been conducted at the iconic Belmont Park in Elmont.
2023 Expectations
After a year of closure to fans in 2020, the Belmont Stakes welcomed spectators back in 2021, and everything is set for an incredible event in 2023. Stay Updated with Belmont Stakes Odds as you plan your experience. With various ticketing options available, ranging from general admission to Premium Experiences and Box Seats, securing your spot at the race is highly recommended.
For those watching from home, Fox Sports will broadcast the Belmont Stakes, while other racing events from Belmont Park will be aired on FS1 and FS2.
Betting on the Belmont Stakes
Betting on the Belmont Stakes is accessible and convenient, even if you cannot attend the event. In 37 states, you can bet from home using an “advance deposit wagering” platform—an app or website that allows you to fund your account and place bets remotely. Setting up your account in advance is crucial, as processing funds may take a day. NYRA Bets serves as the official wagering platform for the Belmont Stakes, offering promotions and sign-up deals for bettors. America’s Best Racing provides helpful Dos and Don’ts for online betting, along with their Gambling Calculator to assist in understanding bets and their costs.
Understanding Betting Basics
For those who are new to horse race betting, this section offers a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals. It covers key bet types, including the Win bet (predicting a horse to finish first), Place bet (predicting a horse to finish first or second), Show bet (predicting a horse to finish in the top three), and Across the board bet (a combination of Win, Place, and Show bets). Furthermore, concepts like “in the money” and the morning line are explained to provide a deeper understanding of horse race betting.
Traditions of the Belmont Stakes
Like other Triple Crown races, the Belmont Stakes has its own set of traditions. As the horses make their way to the starting gate, the traditional song “New York, New York” sets the atmosphere. Before 1997, the anthem was “Sidewalks of New York,” and in 2010, “Empire State of Mind” took center stage.
To honor the victorious horse at the Belmont Stakes, a magnificent mantle of white carnations is draped upon its withers, symbolizing triumph. Adding to the grandeur of the occasion is the prestigious August Belmont Memorial Cup, a sterling silver bowl and lid meticulously crafted by Tiffany and Company. It stands as a timeless testament to the event’s significance.
Furthermore, the Belmont Jewel, the official libation of the Belmont Stakes, is a delightful concoction that combines the rich flavors of bourbon, lemonade, pomegranate juice, and a zest of orange, creating a truly delightful and refreshing beverage.
Life After the Races
Racehorses, both female and male, often transition to a breeding career after retirement. However, only the most accomplished male racehorses become sires, while a significant number of female Thoroughbreds are bred each year. Thoroughbreds, renowned for their intelligence and competitive spirit, find diverse second careers as Off-Track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs).
These retired racehorses excel in disciplines such as Dressage, Eventing, Show Jumping, and Polo. Organizations like the Retired Racehorse Project and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance facilitate their retraining, rehoming, and retirement. These remarkable animals have also shown potential as therapy partners, aiding individuals through programs like Equine-Assisted Therapy.
Conclusion
The Belmont Stakes is a culmination of history, competition, and excitement. With its distinctive place in horse racing lore, attending the event or participating remotely offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the sport, the Belmont Stakes provides an ideal opportunity to witness the pinnacle of Thoroughbred racing while celebrating the rich traditions and incredible athletes that make it all possible.
Belmont Stakes post position graphic, NYRA
