The Belmont Stakes, a historic event in the world of horse racing, is set to take place this Saturday, June 6, marking the 158th running of this prestigious race. While no horse will claim the Triple Crown this year, the excitement remains high as the event unfolds at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. This location serves as a temporary home for the race while Belmont Park undergoes renovations, with plans to return to its original venue in 2027.

Race Details and Participants

The main event is scheduled for 7:04 p.m. ET, although this time may be adjusted based on the readiness of the horses at the starting gate. The Belmont Stakes will be broadcast live on FOX, starting at 3 p.m. ET, with streaming available on FOX One.

This year’s field features nine horses, including the Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo, who is returning to the track after skipping the Preakness Stakes. The prize purse for the Belmont Stakes is set at $2 million, with $1.2 million awarded to the winner, matching the Preakness Stakes but falling short of the Kentucky Derby’s prize.

Historical Significance

The Belmont Stakes is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. It has been a staple of American horse racing since its inception in 1867, with Belmont Park traditionally hosting the event since 1905. The temporary move to Saratoga Race Course has allowed for much-needed renovations at Belmont Park, ensuring the venue’s readiness for future races.

As fans and participants gather for this year’s race, the Belmont Stakes continues to be a symbol of tradition and excellence in the sport, drawing attention from horse racing enthusiasts across the nation.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.