When Did A Horse Last Win The Triple Crown? Year And Champion

David

2 min read

Post on Jun 09, 2025

4.2

Share

When Did a Horse Last Win the Triple Crown? Year and Champion

The Triple Crown of Thoroughbred horse racing—the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes—is a feat of athleticism and endurance that captivates millions. But when was the last time a horse achieved this prestigious trifecta? The answer is a date etched in racing history: 2018.

That year, a magnificent chestnut colt named Justify stormed onto the scene, dominating the competition and etching his name into the annals of racing history. His Triple Crown victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement of power, speed, and grace.

<br>

Justify's Unprecedented Triple Crown Run

Justify's journey to the Triple Crown was remarkable, particularly considering he hadn't raced as a two-year-old. This unusual start only added to the excitement and speculation surrounding his potential. His victories were decisive, demonstrating a rare combination of stamina and speed.

• Kentucky Derby (May 5, 2018): Justify secured a commanding victory, showcasing his impressive acceleration and ability to handle the pressure of the iconic race.
• Preakness Stakes (May 19, 2018): He continued his winning streak, further cementing his status as a serious contender for the Triple Crown.
• Belmont Stakes (June 9, 2018): In a thrilling finish, Justify clinched the Triple Crown, becoming the 13th horse in history to achieve this monumental feat.

<br>

The Significance of Justify's Win

Justify's Triple Crown win was significant for several reasons:

• Unprecedented Late Start: As mentioned, his late start to racing made his achievement even more impressive.
• Maintaining Momentum: He maintained consistent performance across all three races, a testament to his exceptional training and natural talent.
• Inspiring a New Generation: His victory inspired a new wave of interest in horse racing, attracting both seasoned fans and new audiences.

Justify's legacy extends beyond his Triple Crown win. He remains a symbol of athletic excellence and a reminder of the enduring appeal of horse racing.

<br>

The Long Wait Between Triple Crown Winners

It's worth noting that the period between Triple Crown winners can vary significantly. The gap between Justify's victory in 2018 and American Pharoah's win in 2015 was relatively short. However, before American Pharoah, there was a considerable drought, with Affirmed being the last horse to win the Triple Crown before 1978. This highlights the extraordinary difficulty of achieving this remarkable feat.

<br>

Looking Ahead to Future Triple Crown Contenders

The quest for the Triple Crown continues to enthrall racing enthusiasts worldwide. Every year, promising young horses emerge, vying for a chance to etch their names into racing history. While predicting a winner is always challenging, the thrill of the chase and the potential for another Triple Crown champion keeps the sport vibrant and exciting. Will we see another Triple Crown winner soon? Only time will tell.

Keywords: Triple Crown, Justify, Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, horse racing, 2018, champion horse, American Pharoah, Affirmed, thoroughbred horse racing.