The 156th running of the Belmont Stakes is set for Saturday, June 8, promising to be an unforgettable event in horse racing. Traditionally held at the historic Belmont Park, this year’s race has a twist.
Due to a massive renovation at Belmont Park, the race will be contested at the renowned Saratoga Race Course. Additionally, the grueling 1.5-mile distance has been shortened to 1¼ miles for the 2024 edition. With a $2 million purse, the stakes are higher than ever as contenders compete for the famous blanket of carnations and a place in horse racing history.
Here, we’ll get to know the top probable starters, exploring their strengths, recent performances, and what makes them contenders to watch in this highly anticipated race.
Mystik Dan
Mystik Dan has already demonstrated his exceptional talent with a remarkable victory in the Kentucky Derby, where he defied the odds and emerged as the champion. Following this triumph, he continued showing prowess by securing a solid second-place finish in the Preakness Stakes. These impressive performances have solidified his reputation as a top contender in the racing world.
However, the relentless nature of the Triple Crown series raises concerns about his ability to maintain peak performance. Competing in three intense races over a short period is a formidable challenge that tests the endurance of even the most seasoned horses.
Trainer Kenny McPeek is weighing his options carefully and has not decided if Mystik Dan will compete in the Belmont Stakes. There is a possibility that he might choose to rest the colt and aim for the Travers Stakes in August instead.
If Mystik Dan does enter the Belmont Stakes, his track record of solid finishes and undeniable talent will make him a horse to watch. Nevertheless, the physical demands of racing in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness back-to-back could impact his performance.
Whether he can overcome this rigorous schedule and secure another victory, further cementing his place in horse racing history, for those looking to get in on the action, now is the perfect time to bet on Belmont Stakes online and see if Mystik Dan can continue his impressive run.
Seize The Grey
Seize The Grey earned much respect with his impressive win at the Preakness Stakes, leading the race from start to finish. He’s shown he can handle shorter races well, winning the Pat Day Mile on Derby Day and using his speed to take the shorter Preakness.
However, the Belmont Stakes will be a different challenge. Even though the race is shorter this year at 1¼ miles, it’s still longer than Seize The Grey usually runs. Hence, this could test his stamina.
Also, the competition will be more challenging, and the track conditions at Saratoga might be better than the wet track he won at Pimlico. These factors could make it harder for him to win again. While Seize The Grey is a strong horse, the longer distance and stronger field at the Belmont Stakes will be significant hurdles for him to overcome.
Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone, trained by Chad Brown, showed incredible determination in the Kentucky Derby. Starting from 18th place, he fought through the field and nearly won, just missing first place in a photo finish against Mystik Dan. His performance was a testament to his speed and stamina.
Jockey Tyler Gaffalione might plan a more strategic race for the Belmont Stakes. The smaller field and longer distance could work to Sierra Leone’s advantage, giving him a better chance to use his strengths.
Additionally, skipping the Preakness means Sierra Leone is well-rested, which could give him an edge in this final Triple Crown race. With his proven ability to rally from behind and the benefit of extra rest, Sierra Leone is a strong contender for the Belmont Stakes.
Honor Marie
Honor Marie has had a tough year with three starts and no wins yet. Despite finishing 8th in the Kentucky Derby, his performance was notable because he faced a lot of early jostling and traffic. He managed to push through and finish in the middle of the pack, showing his potential.
Earlier this year, Honor Marie finished second in the Louisiana Derby, highlighting his capability when things go more smoothly. If he can avoid early issues in the Belmont Stakes, he might surprise many with a strong performance.
Honor Marie could be a dark horse to watch in the Belmont Stakes with a more straightforward run and fewer obstacles. He has the potential to deliver a strong finish and possibly upset some of the favorites.
Tuscan Gold
Tuscan Gold, trained by Chad Brown, finished 4th in the Preakness Stakes, trailing the winner, Seize the Grey, by more than 8 lengths. Earlier in the season, he secured a 3rd place finish in the Louisiana Derby, showcasing his potential against strong competition.
Chad Brown, who also trains top contender Sierra Leone, has been a dominant force in the NYRA circuit, boasting over 30 training titles and a streak of seven consecutive Belmont spring/summer meet victories, only broken last year.
This year, it’s notable that Brown is bringing Tuscan Gold back to compete in the Belmont Stakes after running in the Preakness, a strategy not often seen. Tuscan Gold’s experience and Brown’s expertise make him a horse to watch in this year’s race.
Final Takeaway
The 2024 Belmont Stakes promises to be an exciting race with strong contenders. From the well-rested Sierra Leone to the resilient Mystik Dan, each horse brings unique strengths to the track. As we await the final lineup, anticipation builds for what could be a memorable conclusion to this year’s Triple Crown series.
Don’t miss out on the action! Follow the Belmont Stakes to see which top starters will win the victory and secure their place in horse racing history. Stay tuned for more updates and expert analyses to keep you informed and ready for race day.
