In the 156th running of the Belmont Stakes, Dornoch emerged victorious, with jockey Luis Saez earning his second win in the prestigious race. Preakness winner Seize the Grey led at the ¾-mile mark, but Dornoch stayed close and ultimately pulled ahead at the finish line. Sierra Leone, the favorite in both the Belmont Stakes and the Derby, finished third. This marks the sixth consecutive year that three different horses have won a leg of the Triple Crown, with the last horse to win multiple legs being Justify in 2018.
Former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Jayson Werth has a 10% ownership stake in Dornoch, adding to the excitement surrounding the horse’s victory. The race was relocated to Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York this year due to renovations at Belmont Park, presenting a challenge for horses and jockeys who had to adjust to the new course. The traditional 1½ mile race was shortened to 1 1/8 miles at Saratoga, the same distance as the Kentucky Derby. The race was attended by two-time Super Bowl-winning head coach Bill Parcells, a regular at the track and resident of Saratoga Springs.
Despite the changes in venue and distance, Dornoch emerged as the winner of the Belmont Stakes, defying the odds with a closing at 17-1. With the win, Dornoch joins a long list of memorable champions in the history of the prestigious race. The success of Dornoch adds to the excitement of the Triple Crown series, with each leg providing unexpected results and thrilling moments for racing enthusiasts. The return of the Belmont Stakes to its traditional home at Belmont Park in 2026 will be eagerly anticipated by fans and participants alike, following the successful staging of the event at Saratoga Race Course this year.
The presence of Jayson Werth as a part-owner of Dornoch adds a unique twist to the story of the Belmont Stakes, highlighting the diverse range of individuals involved in the world of horse racing. The victory of Dornoch serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of horse racing, where underdogs can and do emerge victorious against the odds. The relocation of the race to Saratoga Race Course provided a new challenge for participants, requiring them to adapt to a different track and distance. Despite these changes, the essence of the Belmont Stakes remained intact, with Dornoch emerging as a deserving winner.
The consistent rotation of winners in the Triple Crown series adds to the excitement and unpredictability of the sport, showcasing the talent and skill of both horses and jockeys. The presence of notable figures like Bill Parcells at the race further emphasizes the significance of the Belmont Stakes in the world of sports. The upcoming return of the race to Saratoga next year before going back to Belmont Park in 2026 ensures that fans can continue to enjoy the thrill of one of the most prestigious events in horse racing. Subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter for more coverage of sports events and updates on the world of athletics.
