In an unprecedented move, the prestigious Belmont Stakes was held at Saratoga Race Course last year, marking a significant milestone in the sport's history. Trainer Danny Gargan's Dornoch, ridden by Luiz Saez, emerged victorious in this historic 10-furlong race, beating Mindframe by half a length. The event drew a record-breaking crowd of 50,000 spectators, who witnessed not only the thrilling conclusion of the Triple Crown but also a day filled with excitement and energy. The Belmont Stakes program generated an impressive $125,748,941 in wagers, highlighting the immense public interest in this unique edition of the race.

A Historic Edition of the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga

In the golden hues of autumn, Saratoga Race Course hosted its first-ever Belmont Stakes, creating an unforgettable experience for both participants and fans. Trainer Danny Gargan and jockey Luiz Saez teamed up to lead Dornoch, a 17-1 underdog, to victory in the final leg of the Triple Crown. The son of Good Magic surged ahead in the final stretch, securing a narrow win over Mindframe, with Sierra Leone, the eventual Breeders' Cup Classic winner, finishing third.

The event took place on a sunny Saturday in front of a packed house of 50,000 enthusiastic racing fans. The atmosphere was electric as the crowd cheered for each race in a 14-race card that included eight graded stakes events. The Belmont Stakes alone saw $60,904,557 wagered, underscoring the race's significance even without the allure of a Triple Crown on the line.

For Gargan, winning the Belmont Stables at one of his primary training bases was a career-defining moment. "It was a dream come true," he said. "Winning a big race at Saratoga is better than anything. It’s special because people just love racing there." Track announcer Frank Mirahmadi echoed these sentiments, describing the crowd's reaction as "amazing" and noting how the audience embraced Dornoch's unexpected victory.

A New Chapter for Horse Racing

This historic Belmont Stakes showcased the enduring appeal and excitement of horse racing. For many, including Gargan and Mirahmadi, it was a day they will never forget. The event proved that even without the pressure of a Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes can still captivate audiences and create memorable moments. As preparations continue for future editions, including the upcoming Belmont Stakes Racing Festival at Saratoga, the sport looks forward to more thrilling races and celebrations of exceptional horses and trainers. The success of this year's event sets a high bar for what lies ahead, promising more excitement and passion in the world of horse racing.