The Belmont Stakes 2024, one of the most anticipated events in American horse racing, captivated fans with a blend of history, excitement, and competitive spirit. As the third jewel in the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, the Belmont Stakes has long been a decisive race for top three-year-old thoroughbreds. The 2024 edition brought a unique twist, historic changes, and an epic showdown that reaffirmed why it is often dubbed the “Test of the Champion.”
In this detailed guide, we will explore every aspect of the Belmont Stakes 2024, from its relocation to Saratoga Race Course to the performances, results, and the cultural significance of this historic race.
A Historic Change: Belmont Stakes Moves to Saratoga for 2024
For the first time in its storied history, the Belmont Stakes was run at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. Traditionally held at Belmont Park in Elmont, the event was moved due to a massive $455 million renovation project underway at the track. This shift brought about not only a change in venue but also a change in race length.
Why the Move Matters
- Venue: Saratoga, one of the oldest and most beautiful tracks in America, brought a fresh charm to the Belmont Stakes 2024.
- Race Distance: The 2024 Belmont Stakes was shortened to 1¼ miles (10 furlongs) instead of its traditional 1½ miles (12 furlongs), due to Saratoga’s track limitations.
- Impact: The shorter distance created a more level playing field and added an element of unpredictability.
This move is a temporary measure, with the Belmont Stakes expected to return to Belmont Park in 2026 once renovations are completed.
The Contenders: Who Ran in the Belmont Stakes 2024?
The Belmont Stakes 2024 featured a ten-horse field with some of the top talent in thoroughbred racing. These included past Derby contenders, rising stars, and elite trainers and jockeys.
Top Horses in the Race
- Sierra Leone – The betting favorite trained by Chad Brown and coming off a close second in the Kentucky Derby.
- Mystik Dan – The 2024 Kentucky Derby winner looking to capture his second jewel of the Triple Crown.
- Seize the Grey – Winner of the Preakness Stakes 2024 and trained by the legendary D. Wayne Lukas.
- Mindframe – An unbeaten colt trained by Todd Pletcher, entering the Belmont with growing fanfare.
- Dornoch – A full brother to 2023 Kentucky Derby winner Mage and a serious underdog in the race.
This lineup set the stage for one of the most competitive and dramatic Belmont Stakes races in recent memory.
The Race: Dornoch’s Stunning Victory
Against all odds, Dornoch emerged victorious in the Belmont Stakes 2024, shocking many fans and experts. Ridden by jockey Luis Saez and trained by Danny Gargan, Dornoch was not among the top favorites going into the race. However, a smart and aggressive ride helped him secure the win with a final time of 2:01.64 over the 1¼ mile track.
Key Moments from the Race
- Early Lead: Dornoch took an early lead and maintained a strong pace, never letting go of the front.
- Tactical Ride: Saez controlled the race expertly, conserving enough energy to fend off a late challenge from Mindframe.
- Final Results:
- 🥇 Dornoch
- 🥈 Mindframe
- 🥉 Sierra Leone
This victory was a defining moment in Dornoch’s career and added a major accolade for his trainer and jockey.
Payouts and Winnings
The Belmont Stakes 2024 had a purse of $2 million, with the winner’s share totaling $1.2 million. Bettors who backed Dornoch enjoyed impressive returns, especially considering his odds of 17.70-1.
Payout Summary:
- $2 Win on Dornoch: $37.40
- $2 Exacta (Dornoch-Mindframe): $139.00
- $0.50 Trifecta (Dornoch-Mindframe-Sierra Leone): $117.12
- $0.10 Superfecta (with Protective): $132.90
These payouts reflected the race’s unexpected outcome and the highly competitive field.
The Experience: Fans, Fashion, and Festivities
Belmont Stakes isn’t just about the race—it’s an experience. The 2024 edition at Saratoga Race Course offered fans a blend of tradition and innovation.
Attendance and Atmosphere
- Over 50,000 spectators packed Saratoga, despite it being smaller than Belmont Park.
- A full day of racing featured 13 stakes races with a total of $10.25 million in purses.
- The fashion was on full display, with fans donning classic Derby-style outfits, wide-brimmed hats, and summer suits.
From food and drink vendors to live music, the Belmont Stakes 2024 was a complete entertainment package.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Legacy of the Triple Crown
Though no Triple Crown was at stake in 2024, each leg of the series held immense importance. Belmont Stakes has long been seen as the most grueling and decisive challenge. With a shortened distance this year, the dynamics shifted, but the prestige remained.
Hall of Fame Presence
- Trainers like Todd Pletcher, Chad Brown, and D. Wayne Lukas brought elite-level preparation to the race.
- Legendary jockeys, including Irad Ortiz Jr. and Flavien Prat, added depth to the field.
Belmont Stakes 2024 honored the past while forging a new path with its temporary relocation.
Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Racing?
The success of Belmont Stakes 2024 at Saratoga sets the stage for exciting developments:
- Belmont Park Renovation: Once completed in 2026, Belmont Park will feature modern amenities, a winterized grandstand, and enhanced fan experiences.
- Saratoga’s Role: Its ability to host a world-class event may lead to more high-profile races at the venue in the future.
- Dornoch’s Future: His victory puts him on a strong trajectory for further Grade 1 races, possibly including the Travers Stakes and Breeders’ Cup.
Conclusion
The Belmont Stakes 2024 proved to be a groundbreaking event in the world of horse racing. From its historic relocation to Saratoga to Dornoch’s surprising and emphatic win, the race brought drama, elegance, and excitement. Though the traditional 1½-mile challenge was shortened, the race maintained its title as a premier event in American sports.
With a new venue, a fresh narrative, and an underdog triumphing against the odds, Belmont Stakes 2024 reminded fans why they fall in love with this sport year after year.
FAQs About Belmont Stakes 2024
Q1: Why was Belmont Stakes 2024 held at Saratoga instead of Belmont Park?
A: Due to ongoing $455 million renovations at Belmont Park, the 2024 and 2025 editions are temporarily being held at Saratoga Race Course.
Q2: Who won the Belmont Stakes 2024?
A: Dornoch, ridden by jockey Luis Saez and trained by Danny Gargan, won the Belmont Stakes 2024.
Q3: What was the race distance in 2024?
A: The race was 1¼ miles (10 furlongs) due to the track limitations at Saratoga, shorter than the traditional 1½ miles.
Q4: Was a Triple Crown at stake in 2024?
A: No. Although Mystik Dan won the Kentucky Derby, Seize the Grey won the Preakness, meaning no horse had a chance at the Triple Crown by the time of the Belmont.
Q5: What were the final payouts for the Belmont Stakes 2024?
A: A $2 win bet on Dornoch paid $37.40, with lucrative payouts for exactas and trifectas due to the surprising result.
Q6: When will the Belmont Stakes return to its original track?
A: The Belmont Stakes is expected to return to Belmont Park in 2026 once renovations are completed.
Q7: How did the new venue impact the race?
A: Saratoga’s shorter track led to a reduced race length, affecting strategy and allowing horses like Dornoch to capitalize with early speed.
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