Dornoch, a 17-1 longshot, claimed a surprising victory at the 156th Belmont Stakes held at Saratoga Race Course, marking a historic moment as the event was hosted there for the first time due to renovations at Belmont Park. Co-owned by former MLB star Jayson Werth, Dornoch's win is celebrated as a significant achievement in horse racing.
In a stunning upset, Dornoch, a horse with 17-1 odds, won the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course. This victory is notable not only for the odds but also because it was the first time the event was held at Saratoga due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. The race, traditionally the final leg of the Triple Crown, did not see a Triple Crown contender this year, but the excitement was no less palpable.
For the first time in its 156-year history, the Belmont Stakes was held at Saratoga Race Course instead of its traditional venue at Belmont Park, which is undergoing a $455 million renovation. The historic change also included a modification of the race distance to 1 1/4 miles from the usual 1 1/2 miles, aligning it with the Kentucky Derby's length. This adjustment was pivotal in attracting a competitive field, including horses like Dornoch who had previously competed in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes.
Dornoch, ridden by jockey Luis Saez and trained by Danny Gargan, managed to hold off strong contenders such as Mindframe and Sierra Leone to clinch the victory. This win was particularly sweet for Saez, marking his second victory in the Belmont Stakes. The race was tightly contested, but Dornoch's strategic positioning and strong finish were key to his success. This victory was not just a win for the team but also a testament to the unpredictability and thrill of horse racing.
The victory was a significant moment for all involved, especially for co-owner Jayson Werth, who compared the thrill to winning the World Series with the Phillies. The win at such high odds brought immense joy and was a cause for celebration among the team and fans alike. Trainer Danny Gargan expressed disbelief and joy, highlighting Dornoch's talent and resilience. The victory not only celebrated Dornoch's prowess but also underscored the enduring allure and unpredictability of horse racing.
Dornoch's victory at the Belmont Stakes is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of horse racing and the potential for underdogs to achieve spectacular wins. This event not only highlighted the capabilities of the horse and his team but also marked a significant moment in the history of the Belmont Stakes, being held at Saratoga for the first time. As Belmont Park continues its renovations, the racing community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for this prestigious event.
"This is as good as it gets in horse racing; this is as good as it gets in sports." - Jayson Werth