2015 Belmont Stakes--Will We Have To Wait?
The last time America witnessed a 3-year old sweep the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes was 1978 when Affirmed achieved immortality. Adding it up, makes it 37 years of being on hold. The prolonged duration has me comparing racing fans to the citizens of the movie Casablanca, who also have been waiting and waiting and waiting. Only in the film it's an exit visa they desire. For us, its a special horse to come along and conquer.
Well, here we go again folks. In a little over 2 weeks, American Pharoah will try what 13 previous horses since 1979 attempted, but failed to accomplish--win America's Triple Crown. Only eleven horses in thoroughbred racing history have seized the elusive title. The difficult and exhausting schedule of three races in 5 weeks at distances longer than most horses will ever run, is without question, the toughest task any equine will face during its racing career. Last year at this time, California Chrome looked poised to become the 12th Triple Crown winner following his victories in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. However, he faltered in the Belmont and finished fourth.
In 2012, I'll Have Another had a chance, but due to an injury was scratched the day before the Belmont. And in the 2008, Big Brown was pulled up in the far turn of the Belmont, then was eased through the stretch. In total, dating back to 1932, there have been 23 horses that have been Derby/Preakness winners, but in the Belmont, were either defeated or did not start. The current streak of failure, misery and agony, extending all the way back to 1979, is the longest drought without a champion.
The attempt at glory by American Pharoah, will be the fourth time that trainer Bob Baffert has been in this situation. Unfortunately for the 63-year old white-hair conditioner, his former trio of Silver Charm (1997), Real Quiet (1998) and War Emblem (2002) were each denied victory in the finale of the series. For jockey Victor Espinoza, this will be his third shot at riding for a Triple Crown. Espinoza was aboard the aforementioned War Emblem in 2002 and California Chrome last year. Just maybe Victor's third time will truly be the charm for everyone involved with the horse.
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There's no doubt that American Pharoah has the talent and the ability to win the third jewel. Question is, will he? If he does, his addition to an exclusive group will bring the membership to an even dozen and his achievement will bring racing fans across the country a much needed state of extreme happiness. If he's unsuccessful, we'll just continue to wait and wait and wait.
1919-Sir Barton
1930-Gallant Fox
1935-Omaha
1937-War Admiral
1941-Whirlaway
1943-Count Fleet
1946-Assault
1948-Citation
1973-Secretariat
1977-Seattle Slew
1978-Affirmed