Past Belmont Stakes Winners: Year-by-Year Results And Records

David

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Post on Jun 03, 2025

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Past Belmont Stakes Winners: A Year-by-Year Look at History's Fastest Horses

The Belmont Stakes, the final jewel in horse racing's Triple Crown, boasts a rich history filled with legendary horses and unforgettable moments. For decades, fans have flocked to Belmont Park to witness the culmination of this prestigious race, watching as powerful thoroughbreds battle for victory across the challenging 1 ½-mile track. This year-by-year look at past Belmont Stakes winners will delve into the records, revealing the champions, their times, and the stories behind their triumphs.

Understanding the Belmont Stakes' Significance

Before diving into the winners, it's crucial to understand the unique challenges the Belmont Stakes presents. Unlike the Kentucky Derby (1 1/4 miles) and the Preakness Stakes (1 3/16 miles), the longer distance of the Belmont tests a horse's stamina and endurance. This often means that horses who excel in shorter sprints may struggle to maintain their pace over the longer course. This difference in distance contributes to the unpredictable nature of the race and makes each year's result captivating.

A Decade of Belmont Champions (2014-2023): A Glimpse into Recent History

Let's begin our journey through recent Belmont Stakes history:

• 2014: Tonalist, ridden by Joel Rosario, secured victory with a powerful finish, showcasing the importance of stamina in the race.
• 2015: American Pharoah achieved Triple Crown glory, becoming the first horse to win all three races since 1978. His performance cemented his place in racing history.
• 2016: Creator, ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., upset the odds, proving that even without prior Triple Crown wins, a horse can conquer Belmont.
• 2017: Tapwrit, guided by Jose Ortiz, triumphed in a thrilling photo finish, highlighting the intense competition characteristic of the race.
• 2018: Justify completed a Triple Crown sweep, becoming the 13th horse in history to achieve this remarkable feat. His win cemented his place among racing legends.
• 2019: Sir Winston, a long shot, stunned the crowd with a surprising victory, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of horse racing.
• 2020: Tiz the Law was heavily favored but failed to win, highlighting the inherent unpredictability of the race.
• 2021: Essential Quality, considered one of the best contenders, also fell short, demonstrating the challenge the 1 ½ mile distance presents.
• 2022: Mo Donegal secured victory in an impressive performance.
• 2023: Arcangelo, a late bloomer who improved as the race progressed, secured an impressive victory. His win showcased the long-distance stamina required to succeed at Belmont.

(Note: For a complete year-by-year list dating back to the first Belmont Stakes in 1867, please refer to dedicated horse racing resources like the official Belmont Stakes website or reputable equestrian publications.)

Records and Notable Mentions:

Throughout the Belmont Stakes' history, numerous records have been set and broken. Some notable achievements include:

• Fastest Belmont Stakes Time: Secretariat's record-breaking time of 2:24 in 1973 remains a testament to his exceptional speed and stamina. This time is considered almost untouchable.
• Triple Crown Winners: The list of Triple Crown winners in Belmont is a prestigious roll call, highlighting the rare feat of winning all three legs of the Triple Crown.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The year-by-year results reveal not only the incredible athleticism of the horses but also the unpredictable nature of this iconic race. The legacy of past winners, from Secretariat's record-breaking run to American Pharoah's Triple Crown triumph, solidifies the Belmont Stakes' place as a cornerstone of horse racing history. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer, studying past Belmont Stakes winners provides a fascinating glimpse into the sport's rich and dramatic history. Learn more by exploring dedicated racing websites and archives for in-depth data and captivating stories.