Belmont Stakes Makes History at Saratoga with Dornoch’s Victory
In a surprising turn of events, Dornoch emerged victorious at the 156th Belmont Stakes held at Saratoga, marking the first time this prestigious race has taken place at this venue. The horse, co-owned by Jayson Werth, clinched the win with odds of 17-1, beating out Mindframe in a thrilling finish. Trainer Danny Gargan celebrated his first Triple Crown win, while jockey Luis Saez secured his second victory at the Belmont.
“He’s one of the top 3-year-olds in the country, and we’ve always thought it,” Gargan expressed. “We let him run his race and he won. If he gets to run, he’s always going to be tough to beat.” This triumph comes after Dornoch’s challenging performance at the Kentucky Derby, where a turbulent run led to a 10th-place result.
The Belmont Stakes at Saratoga marked a significant moment in horse racing history, as the event made its debut at the renowned venue with a shortened distance of 1 1/4 miles. This adjustment allowed for a more competitive field, attracting horses that had previously competed in the Derby and Preakness.
While the absence of a Triple Crown contender may have shifted the dynamics of the race, the excitement and competitive spirit remained high. Sierra Leone, the Derby runner-up and crowd favorite, secured third place, with Honor Marie finishing in fourth. The unpredictability of the Belmont Stakes was further highlighted by the fact that for the sixth consecutive year, a different horse emerged victorious in each leg of the Triple Crown.
As Saratoga basked in the glory of hosting this historic event, plans are already in motion for the return of the Belmont Stakes to Belmont Park in 2026. The temporary relocation allowed for a unique and memorable race day experience, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of the horse racing community.
With Dornoch’s remarkable triumph and the unforgettable setting of Saratoga as the backdrop, the 156th Belmont Stakes will be remembered as a testament to the sport’s resilience and enduring spirit.