10 Belmont Stakes Fun Facts
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Belmont stakes runs june 6th
Did you know these belmont stakes fun facts?
10 Fun facts!
1. A Different Distance in 2026
Due to venue adjustments, the 2026 Belmont Stakes will be contested at 1¼ miles, shorter than its traditional 1½-mile distance—bringing it in line with the Kentucky Derby distance.
2. “The Test of the Champion”
Even with occasional distance changes, the Belmont is still known as “The Test of the Champion” for its demanding conditions and elite competition.
3. Secretariat’s Untouchable Record
Secretariat’s 1973 performance—winning by 31 lengths in 2:24 at 1½ miles—is widely regarded as the greatest race in Thoroughbred history.
4. Triple Crown Pressure
As the final leg, the Belmont has spoiled many Triple Crown bids, proving that stamina and timing are just as important as speed.
5. Justify’s Perfect Run
In 2018, Justify became the first undefeated Triple Crown winner since 1977, completing his sweep in just his sixth career start.
6. Woody Stephens’ Historic Streak
Hall of Fame trainer Woody Stephens won five straight Belmont Stakes (1982–1986)—a feat unlikely to be matched.
7. Jockey Great Eddie Arcaro
Eddie Arcaro holds the record with six Belmont wins and remains one of the sport’s most decorated riders.
8. Oldest Triple Crown Race
First run in 1867, the Belmont Stakes is the oldest of the Triple Crown races.
9. Fillies Making History
Only three fillies have won the Belmont, most recently Rags to Riches (2007), who outdueled Curlin in a thrilling stretch battle.
10. Legendary Ownership & Breeding
Prominent racing operations like Belair Stud and Wheatley Stable have multiple Belmont victories, highlighting the importance of elite breeding programs.
Due to venue adjustments, the 2026 Belmont Stakes will be contested at 1¼ miles, shorter than its traditional 1½-mile distance—bringing it in line with the Kentucky Derby distance.
2. “The Test of the Champion”
Even with occasional distance changes, the Belmont is still known as “The Test of the Champion” for its demanding conditions and elite competition.
3. Secretariat’s Untouchable Record
Secretariat’s 1973 performance—winning by 31 lengths in 2:24 at 1½ miles—is widely regarded as the greatest race in Thoroughbred history.
4. Triple Crown Pressure
As the final leg, the Belmont has spoiled many Triple Crown bids, proving that stamina and timing are just as important as speed.
5. Justify’s Perfect Run
In 2018, Justify became the first undefeated Triple Crown winner since 1977, completing his sweep in just his sixth career start.
6. Woody Stephens’ Historic Streak
Hall of Fame trainer Woody Stephens won five straight Belmont Stakes (1982–1986)—a feat unlikely to be matched.
7. Jockey Great Eddie Arcaro
Eddie Arcaro holds the record with six Belmont wins and remains one of the sport’s most decorated riders.
8. Oldest Triple Crown Race
First run in 1867, the Belmont Stakes is the oldest of the Triple Crown races.
9. Fillies Making History
Only three fillies have won the Belmont, most recently Rags to Riches (2007), who outdueled Curlin in a thrilling stretch battle.
10. Legendary Ownership & Breeding
Prominent racing operations like Belair Stud and Wheatley Stable have multiple Belmont victories, highlighting the importance of elite breeding programs.