The Belmont Stakes: A Proven Pastime for Centuries

Despite all of the changes in technology we’ve had in the last century, one pastime still remains as exciting and impressive as it ever was. For over 100 years (since 1867), fans have been engaged in watching this race, gamblers have wagered on it, jockeys have ridden in it, trainers have trained horses for it, and horses have raced in it. More than 100 years of popularity can’t be wrong – this is one amazing race.

Belmont is a Winner
Imagine all of the trends that have come and gone since 1867 – all of the games that have been created, all of the technologies that have been invented. In 1867, there was no Internet to explore, no television to watch, no Playstation to play – yet people still found the thrill of their lives by experiencing this horse race. Owners would save up their money to buy and train a horse for the Belmont Stakes. Wealthy owners would search far and wide for the one magical horse they could bond with and believe in. Trainers would spend nearly every waking hour with the horses they worked with, and jockeys would practice riding every day. It is amazing, despite all the changes in technology, nothing has caused the public to abandon this sport. Not even the engines of Nascar can discourage the experience of the Belmont Stakes.

Belmont’s Popularity
In 2004, Belmont Stakes experienced its record-breaking attendance of 120,139. The race was broadcast on CBS Sports from 1960-1985; ABC Sports from 1986-2000; NBC Sports from 2001-2005; ESPN on ABC from 2006-present. Many films and television shows have been inspired by thoroughbred horse racing, and Triple Crown Winner Secretariat inspired the 2010 Disney film Secretariat. Julie Krone, the only female jockey to win a Triple Crown Race (riding Colonial Affair in the Belmont), wrote the autobiography, Riding for My Life, which inspired the film The Boys Club (release date yet to be established) directed by Katherine Brooks and produced by Sophie Watts. Of course, betting has as always remained one of the most popular pastimes regarding Belmont. Tickets for Belmont 2011 should be purchased now, as the race will take place in June.