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Junior Alvarado and Sovereignty's Belmont Stakes Journey

about 1 year agoUS
Junior Alvarado and Sovereignty's Belmont Stakes JourneySource: nypost.com
Junior Alvarado's spring has been a roller-coaster, from winning the Kentucky Derby aboard Sovereignty to navigating suspensions and skipping the Preakness. Now, they're set for the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course, facing tough competition.

Key Insights

Junior Alvarado won the Kentucky Derby with Sovereignty, marking a career highlight.

Sovereignty skipped the Preakness, focusing on the Belmont Stakes.

Mike Smith, nearing 59, aims to become the oldest jockey to win a Triple Crown race aboard Rodriguez.

Good Cheer, trained by Brad Cox, seeks her eighth straight win in the Acorn Stakes.

The Belmont Stakes is being held at Saratoga Race Course for the second year due to Belmont Park renovations.

In-Depth Analysis

Alvarado's Bumpy Road to Belmont

Junior Alvarado's journey to the Belmont Stakes has been filled with highs and lows. After a fall and injury in March, he rebounded to win the Kentucky Derby on Sovereignty. Despite the victory, Alvarado faced a suspension and fine for alleged whip overuse, adding to the drama.

Sovereignty's Belmont Prep

Trainer Bill Mott opted to skip the Preakness, prioritizing Sovereignty's readiness for the Belmont Stakes. This decision, while disappointing for Triple Crown aspirations, was made with the horse's best interests in mind.

Smith's Pursuit of History

Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, riding Rodriguez, is aiming to become the oldest jockey to win a Triple Crown race. His dedication to fitness and experience make him a formidable competitor.

Good Cheer's Winning Streak

Brad Cox's Good Cheer enters the Acorn Stakes with a seven-race win streak, solidifying her position as a top 3-year-old filly. Her success highlights Cox's talent for developing champion horses.

Belmont Stakes at Saratoga

For the second year, the Belmont Stakes is being held at Saratoga Race Course due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park. The race distance is shortened to 1 1/4 miles (10 furlongs) as a result.

Weather Impact

Torrential rain has affected the Belmont Stakes, leading to the cancellation of turf races and altered track conditions. Handicappers must consider these factors when making their picks.

FAQs

Q: Why is the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga?

Due to ongoing renovations at Belmont Park, the race is being held at Saratoga Race Course for the second consecutive year.

Q: What is the distance of the Belmont Stakes this year?

The race will be 1 1/4 miles (10 furlongs), shorter than the traditional 1 1/2 miles.

Q: Who is favored to win the Belmont Stakes?

Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby winner and Journalism, the Preakness Stakes winner were among the favorites.

Key Takeaways

Junior Alvarado and Sovereignty face a challenging Belmont Stakes after a Kentucky Derby win and Preakness skip.

Mike Smith seeks to make history as the oldest Triple Crown race-winning jockey.

Brad Cox's Good Cheer aims for her eighth consecutive victory.

The Belmont Stakes' temporary relocation to Saratoga and weather conditions add complexity to the race.

Discussion

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