Belmont Stakes Preview: Sovereignty and Journalism Set for Rematch at Saratoga Race Course
The upcoming Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course will feature a rematch between Sovereignty and Journalism, who previously faced off in the Kentucky Derby. Sovereignty emerged victorious in the Derby, while Journalism triumphed in the Preakness Stakes. The two horses, along with a field of six other contenders, are set to compete in the final leg of the Triple Crown. Sovereignty, trained by Bill Mott, and Journalism, trained by Michael McCarthy, are the top favorites for the race, with Baeza also considered a strong contender.
Sovereignty and Journalism took different paths to the Belmont Stakes, with Sovereignty skipping the Preakness and heading straight to Saratoga after the Derby. Journalism, on the other hand, secured a surprising win in the Preakness before making his way to the Belmont. Both trainers are optimistic about their horses' chances in the upcoming race, with Sovereignty showing good form during the layoff and Journalism aiming for a clean ride after facing challenges in previous races.
The field for the Belmont Stakes also includes other notable contenders such as Baeza, Rodriguez, Hill Road, Uncaged, Crudo, and Heart of Honor. Trainers like John Shirreffs, Bob Baffert, and Todd Pletcher will be represented in the race, adding to the competitive lineup. The Belmont Stakes will be run at 1 1/4 miles at Saratoga Race Course, a deviation from its traditional distance of 1 1/2 miles due to track layout changes. With a strong field of contenders and the excitement of a rematch between Sovereignty and Journalism, the Belmont Stakes promises to be a thrilling and competitive race for horse racing fans.