Dornoch, a horse with 17-1 odds, pulled off a stunning upset in the 156th running of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday. The race, held in Saratoga, saw Dornoch take the top spot with an official time of 2:01.64. Mindframe, with 5-1 odds, finished second, while Sierra Leone, the runner-up in the Kentucky Derby, took third place as the favorite with odds of 8-5.
This victory by Dornoch was a major shock, as the horse was considered a huge underdog to win. The odds were stacked against Dornoch, but it defied expectations and emerged as the champion of the prestigious race. The win was celebrated by fans and spectators alike, who were left in awe of this incredible feat.
In addition to beating out Mindframe and Sierra Leone, Dornoch also outran some notable competitors in the field of 10 horses. This included Mystik Dan, the winner of the Kentucky Derby, and Seize the Grey, who had emerged victorious in the Preakness Stakes. Dornoch’s triumph was made even more remarkable by the fact that the race distance was shorter than usual, with it being run at 1 1/4 miles instead of the traditional 1 1/2 miles at Belmont Park.
The victory at the 2024 Belmont Stakes was not only a momentous occasion for Dornoch but also for jockey Luis Saez. This win marked Saez’s second triumph at the event, as he had previously won with Essential Quality in 2021 at Belmont Park. Saez’s skill and expertise played a crucial role in guiding Dornoch to victory, solidifying his status as one of the top jockeys in the sport.
One interesting aspect of this story is that former Major League Baseball player Jayson Werth is a co-owner of Dornoch. Werth, who had won a World Series with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008, expressed his elation at this unexpected triumph. He emphasized the significance of this victory in the world of horse racing, considering it on par with winning on the biggest stage in sports.
Werth’s comments shed light on the often overlooked nature of horse racing as a sport. Despite its grandeur and the immense skill required, it often fails to receive the recognition it deserves. However, with moments like Dornoch’s underdog victory, the sport captivates audiences and reminds them of its undeniable excitement and drama.
In conclusion, Dornoch’s shocking upset at the Belmont Stakes has left a lasting impression on the world of horse racing. Against all odds, the horse emerged as the champion, surpassing favorites and established competitors alike. This triumph not only highlights the skill and determination of Dornoch but also serves as a reminder of the thrill and unpredictability that makes horse racing such a captivating sport.