Belmont Park

Belmont10 1999-05

Belmont Park aerial 2021

Secretariat statue

BelmontParkAirShow

Curtiss monoplane at Belmont Park meet 1910. Eugene Ely at wheel

Belmont Park is a major thoroughbred horse racing facility located in Elmont, New York, just east of the New York City limits. It first opened its doors on May 4, 1905, and has since become one of the most famous horse racing venues in the United States. Belmont Park is known for hosting the Belmont Stakes, the third and final leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing (United States), following the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. The track is owned and operated by the New York Racing Association (NYRA).

History

Belmont Park was named after August Belmont Sr., a key figure in the establishment of the American Jockey Club, and financier of the original facility. The park was designed by noted architect Henry Beaumont Herts, and its grand opening attracted an estimated 40,000 spectators. Over the years, Belmont Park has undergone several renovations and improvements, but it has retained its historic charm and significance in the world of thoroughbred racing.

Features

The main track at Belmont Park, known as "Big Sandy" due to its deep, sandy composition, is the longest dirt thoroughbred racetrack in North America, measuring 1 1/2 miles in length. The park also features a smaller dirt track and two turf tracks. Belmont's grandstand, one of the largest in North America, offers expansive seating and viewing options for spectators.

Belmont Stakes

The Belmont Stakes, often referred to as the "Test of the Champion," is the highlight of the racing season at Belmont Park. It is traditionally run on the first or second Saturday in June and has been the deciding race for many Triple Crown champions. The Belmont Stakes is known for its demanding distance, which has tested the stamina of some of the greatest thoroughbreds in history.

Notable Races

In addition to the Belmont Stakes, Belmont Park hosts several other significant races throughout its spring/summer and fall championship meets, including the Jockey Club Gold Cup, the Manhattan Handicap, and the Suburban Handicap. These races attract top horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world.

Impact on Horse Racing

Belmont Park's contribution to horse racing cannot be overstated. It has been the site of many historic moments, including Secretariat's record-breaking victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, which secured his Triple Crown win. The park's challenging track and prestigious races have made it a centerpiece of American horse racing.

Facilities

Belmont Park is not just a racetrack; it offers a variety of facilities and amenities for visitors, including picnic areas, dining options, and a playground. The park also hosts events and concerts, making it a versatile entertainment venue.

Future

Belmont Park continues to evolve, with plans for further development and modernization aimed at enhancing the experience for fans and participants alike. Its enduring legacy and ongoing contributions to thoroughbred racing ensure that Belmont Park will remain a key player in the sport for years to come.