Triple Crown Winners: A Year-by-Year Look At Recent Victories

David

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Post on Jun 09, 2025

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Triple Crown Winners: A Year-by-Year Look at Recent Victories

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 a feat of incredible athleticism, strategic planning, and a touch of luck. Let's delve into a year-by-year look at the recent victors, examining the horses, jockeys, and memorable moments that defined these historic runs.

The Recent History of Triple Crown Champions

While achieving the Triple Crown is exceptionally rare, the past few decades have witnessed some truly remarkable performances. Let's take a closer look:

2023: No Triple Crown Winner

This year, Forte, a highly anticipated contender, suffered an injury scratching him from the Preakness Stakes. This left the door open for several horses, but ultimately no single horse managed to conquer all three legs of the Triple Crown, demonstrating just how challenging this feat truly is. The absence of a Triple Crown winner in 2023 highlights the intense competition and unpredictable nature of these prestigious races.

2022: No Triple Crown Winner

Rich Strike's stunning upset victory in the Kentucky Derby fueled hopes for a Triple Crown run, but he ultimately fell short in the Preakness. This year further emphasized the difficulty of winning the Triple Crown, showcasing the high level of competition and the unexpected twists and turns that make horse racing so captivating.

2021: No Triple Crown Winner

Medina Spirit's controversial Kentucky Derby win was overshadowed by subsequent failed drug tests. While initially considered a potential Triple Crown contender, this ultimately disqualified him from the race’s history, leaving another year without a Triple Crown champion. This year underscored the rigorous testing and scrutiny surrounding these high-stakes races.

2018: Justify

Justify, trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Mike Smith, became the 13th horse to win the Triple Crown. His undefeated record throughout his career, culminating in his Triple Crown victory, cemented his place in racing history. Justify's impressive performances, especially in the Belmont Stakes where he won by a decisive margin, captivated audiences worldwide. .

2015: American Pharoah

American Pharoah, trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Victor Espinoza, ended a 37-year drought without a Triple Crown winner. His dominant performances in all three races, showcasing exceptional speed and stamina, were electrifying. American Pharoah's victory marked a significant moment for horse racing fans, bringing renewed excitement and attention to the sport. .

The Challenges of Winning the Triple Crown

The Triple Crown presents unique challenges for both horse and jockey. The demanding schedule, requiring top performance within a short timeframe, puts immense physical strain on the horses. The varying distances of the races – the Kentucky Derby (1 ¼ miles), the Preakness Stakes (1 3/16 miles), and the Belmont Stakes (1 ½ miles) – also require incredible versatility and adaptability.

The Future of the Triple Crown

The rarity of a Triple Crown victory continues to make it one of the most coveted prizes in horse racing. Each year, new contenders emerge, sparking excitement and anticipation among fans worldwide. The unpredictable nature of the sport ensures that every race offers thrilling moments and unexpected outcomes. The legacy of the Triple Crown winners, both past and future, will continue to inspire and captivate generations of racing enthusiasts.

What are your predictions for the next Triple Crown race? Share your thoughts in the comments below!