Belmont Stakes Betting: Top 10 Champions
Belmont Stakes Betting Odds and News
Legendary Horses That Made History
The Belmont Stakes is more than just the final leg of the Triple Crown; it’s where legends are made. At 1½ miles, it pushes 3-year-old thoroughbreds to their physical and mental limits, often revealing the true champions of their generation.
If you’re planning to bet on Belmont, knowing the history behind its most outstanding winners can help you better understand today’s contenders. As Belmont Stakes betting ramps up, here’s a closer look at the elite horses whose performances turned them into icons of the sport.
From record-setting romps to unforgettable rivalries, the Belmont Stakes odds have occasionally pointed to greatness, and at other times have been completely upended by surprise upsets. These ten champions left no doubt about their place in horse racing history.
Secretariat (1973): A Race for the Ages
Secretariat didn’t just win the 1973 Belmont Stakes; he redefined what was possible. Pulling away from the field, “Big Red” won by an astonishing 31 lengths in a time of 2:24, a record that still stands. His dominance that day didn’t just complete the Triple Crown; it captured the hearts of fans worldwide and set a new standard for excellence in racing.
Man o’ War (1920): The Champion Who Skipped Churchill Downs
Man o’ War never entered the Kentucky Derby, but his unforgettable Belmont performance more than made up for it. With a commanding 20-length win and a new world record, he left no doubt about his place in history.
Seattle Slew (1977): Undefeated and Unmatched
Seattle Slew entered the Belmont with something to prove, and he did just that. Already unbeaten, he became the first horse to win the Triple Crown without a single loss. His wire-to-wire victory proved his versatility, grit, and stamina. Today, his influence endures through his offspring and the legacy of racing.
American Pharoah (2015): A Triple Crown Revival
In 2015, American Pharoah brought horse racing back into the spotlight with a decisive Belmont win that capped his Triple Crown journey. Bob Baffert, his trainer, answered years of doubt about the possibility of a modern Triple Crown winner.
Count Fleet (1943): Victory on Another Level
In 1943, Count Fleet overwhelmed the Belmont field, finishing a staggering 25 lengths ahead. That astonishing margin of victory stood as a milestone, reflecting the sheer dominance he displayed throughout the Triple Crown.
Citation (1948): Completing the Crown with Authority
Citation delivered a strong performance in the Belmont Stakes to seal his Triple Crown sweep in 1948. Known for his incredible consistency and stamina, his win capped off a historic run through America’s most challenging races.
Justify (2018): A Star Rises in the Fog
Doubts surrounded Justify before the 2018 Belmont, but once the race began, he wasted no time proving himself. Taking charge right out of the gate, he never looked back.
He maintained his unblemished record with a start-to-finish performance that left no room for doubt.
That win also gave trainer Bob Baffert his second career Triple Crown, placing Justify among racing’s most exclusive company.
Easy Goer (1989): Ending a Rival’s Dream
Easy Goer might not have won the Triple Crown, but his Belmont victory was unforgettable. After losing close races in the Derby and Preakness Stakes to Sunday Silence, he crushed his rival by eight lengths at Belmont. That performance stands as one of the most satisfying revenge wins in the history of racing.
Afleet Alex (2005): Resilience Rewarded
After nearly falling in the Preakness, Afleet Alex bounced back with a commanding win in the Belmont. His ability to recover from adversity showed incredible heart. He powered through the 1½ miles with ease, proving that stamina and determination are just as important as speed.
Point Given (2001): The Comeback Kid
Point Given had a rough Derby, finishing fifth despite high expectations. But he rebounded to win both the Preakness and Belmont with style. His Belmont win was a dominant, no-doubt-about-it performance that showed the kind of strength and class fans hoped to see from him all along.
Legacy of Champions
These ten horses didn’t just win, they defined eras, inspired generations, and shaped what it means to be a Belmont Stakes champion. Each brought their style: Secretariat’s sheer power, Easy Goer’s tactical brilliance, American Pharoah’s historical significance, and Justify’s flawless campaign. They all faced different challenges, but what they shared was the heart to conquer Belmont’s grueling test.
The New Contenders
As new contenders step up for this year’s race, their connections will hope they can add their names to this exclusive list. Will we see another Secretariat-style runaway? Or will an underdog write a new chapter in Belmont lore?
When you’re reviewing Belmont Stakes odds, think about how each horse stacks up not just on paper, but in terms of stamina, grit, and mental toughness. That’s what it takes to win at Belmont Park, or this year, Saratoga Race Course, which is temporarily hosting the event during renovations.
As you gear up for the big day, don’t forget to check out our racebook for the latest Belmont Stakes betting insights, odds, and picks. Bet smart, enjoy the ride, and be part of the next great moment in horse racing history.
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