The Last Triple Crown: Year And Winning Horse

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 09, 2025

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The Last Triple Crown: When Did a Horse Last Win All Three?

The Triple Crown of Thoroughbred horse racing – the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes – represents the pinnacle of achievement in the sport. Winning all three races in a single year is an incredibly rare feat, a testament to both the horse's exceptional talent and the skill of its jockey and training team. But when was the last time this prestigious trifecta was accomplished? Let's delve into the history of this challenging feat and uncover the year and the magnificent horse that achieved this remarkable victory.

The Triple Crown is a grueling test of speed, stamina, and mental fortitude. Each race presents unique challenges: the frenetic pace of the Kentucky Derby, the demanding mile-and-three-sixteenths distance of the Preakness, and the daunting mile-and-a-half of the Belmont Stakes. These races, run over different tracks and with varying field sizes, demand a remarkably versatile and resilient horse.

The Last Triple Crown Winner: Justify (2018)

The last horse to achieve the elusive Triple Crown was Justify, in the year 2018. Trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Mike Smith, Justify captivated audiences with his powerful performances and undeniable talent. His undefeated streak throughout the Triple Crown cemented his place in racing history.

• Kentucky Derby (May 5, 2018): Justify secured a convincing victory, showcasing his impressive speed and stamina from the start. This win marked the beginning of his legendary run.
• Preakness Stakes (May 19, 2018): Despite a muddy track and challenging conditions, Justify triumphed once more, proving his adaptability and resilience.
• Belmont Stakes (June 9, 2018): Facing a strong field of competitors, Justify delivered a powerful performance, winning the Belmont Stakes and securing the Triple Crown title. This victory solidified his status as a modern-day racing legend.

Justify's victory was particularly noteworthy because he achieved the Triple Crown without having raced as a two-year-old. This unique accomplishment added another layer of intrigue to his already remarkable story, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential.

The Long Wait for the Next Triple Crown Winner

Since Justify's victory in 2018, several horses have come close, winning two legs of the Triple Crown, only to fall short in the final race. This highlights the extreme difficulty of this challenge and the enduring appeal of the Triple Crown. The anticipation for the next Triple Crown winner remains high, captivating racing enthusiasts worldwide. The quest continues, with each Kentucky Derby sparking renewed hope and excitement for the possibility of witnessing history unfold once more.

The Triple Crown remains a captivating spectacle, a testament to the enduring power and beauty of horse racing. While the wait for the next winner continues, Justify's 2018 victory will forever be etched in the annals of racing history as a truly remarkable achievement. Will we see another Triple Crown winner soon? Only time will tell. Stay tuned to the world of horse racing for updates and exciting developments!

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