BC RACEBOOK MAY NEWSLETTER

Watch Expert Picks for The Royal North Stakes & The Eclipse Stakes at Woodbine TB

The Last Jewel


by Dawn Lupul

The final leg of the Triple Crown is quickly approaching. June 7 is the big day, and handicapping the race is always a fun puzzle.

The Belmont Stakes, held again this year at Saratoga, is known as the "Test of Champions.” Stamina and endurance are extremely important as the 1.5-mile race is the longest of the Triple Crown series. Horses with strong distance-running pedigrees and the ability to relax tend to perform well.

Racing strategy also plays a crucial role. Saratoga is a fantastic racetrack that allows jockeys to work with a horse’s strengths, whether trying to secure the early lead or waiting to push for a strong finish. Jockeys must time the run and find a clear path in the stretch which can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Experience and recent form leading up to the race are also key. Horses with solid performances in prior stakes races, including the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, often have the competitive edge. Horses that have had sufficient rest and preparation between the Preakness and Belmont tend to fare well as the demands of the series can take its toll. Fatigue from running back-to-back races is a real concern, and some horses recover more quickly than others.

On the day of the race, weather conditions can play a significant role in how the horses perform, especially if it’s extremely hot or there’s a heavy rainfall. There has been an abundance of rain in New York this year, and some horses fare better on wet racetracks.

All these factors can play into your handicapping decisions. Best of luck with whoever you like and enjoy what should be a great event!

The Last week of the 10% Cash Back Promotion! Don’t Miss Out!

Celebrate Father’s Day at the Races!

Hastings Racing Club Membership Includes..

  • Reserved grandstand seating in the Hastings racing club section*

  • Accompanied paddock access before your races*

  • Free programs*

  • Accompanied backstretch access to watch your horses in training

  • Orientation event

  • All costs associated wiith training, vet, blacksmith, stabling, entry fees

  • Updates about your horses, plus racing and ownership information

    *on club’s race dates

Matthew Ruhlman