Dornoch emerged victorious in the 156th running of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday, showcasing an impressive performance on the track. The race saw Preakness winner Seize the Grey leading at the ¾-mile mark, closely followed by Dornoch. As they approached the final turn, Mindframe made a late surge from the outside, but it was Dornoch who ultimately crossed the finish line first, defying the odds with a closing at 17-1.
Sierra Leone, the favorite for both Saturday's race and the Derby, settled for third place in a highly competitive field. This year marked the sixth consecutive year in which three different horses claimed victories in the Triple Crown races, with the last multiple-leg winner being Justify in 2018.
Jockey Luis Saez celebrated his second Belmont Stakes triumph, guiding Dornoch to glory in the prestigious event. Notably, former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Jayson Werth holds a 10% ownership stake in the triumphant horse, adding an intriguing subplot to the race.
The Belmont Stakes was relocated to Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. This adjustment presented a challenge for horses and jockeys, as the race distance was modified to 1¼ miles to align with the Kentucky Derby, differing from the traditional 1½-mile length.
The event attracted notable figures like two-time Super Bowl-winning head coach Bill Parcells, a regular presence at the track and a resident of Saratoga Springs. Parcells' attendance added to the allure of the race, highlighting the widespread appeal of the Belmont Stakes.
Looking ahead, the race is set to return to Saratoga next year before making its way back to Belmont Park in 2026, promising more thrilling moments and memorable performances in the years to come.
