Large Field Expected at Belmont Stakes on June 10

For the fourth time in 44 years, it appears the Belmont Stakes on June 10 will be staged without the winner of the Kentucky Derby or Preakness Stakes.

In 2000, Fusaichi Pegasus won at Churchill Downs and ran second to Red Bullet at Pimlico, but neither raced at Belmont. The winner: Commendable. In 1970, Dust Commander triumphed in the Kentucky Derby and Personality took the Preakness, but both skipped the Belmont. High Echelon, third at Louisville, captured the third jewel of the Triple Crown.

One of the most exciting Kentucky Derby contests came in 1962 when Bill Hartack guided Decidedly home ahead of 14 other 3-year-olds. It was one of Hartack’s five victories in America’s Race — he’s tied with Eddie Arcaro for most wins.

After skipping the Kentucky Derby, Greek Money captured the Preakness and Jaipur took the Belmont by a nose. That’s the smallest margin of victory along with Granville in 1936.

Once again winners of the first two Triple Crown legs won’t race in the Belmont, but for different reasons: Derby champ Barbaro is recovering from a life-threatening leg injury in the Preakness while Bernardini will be rested after his impressive victory at Pimlico.

Read more A Large Field Likely for Belmont Stakes 138 >>

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