Justify is looking to make history in the 150th running of the Belmont Stakes. With a win, Justify would become only the second horse to win a Triple Crown since 1978.
If any trainer could accomplish the rare feat, however, it’s likely Bob Baffert. Baffert, Justify’s trainer, also trained American Pharoah, who claimed the Triple Crown in 2015. Justify has a 5-0 career mark.
Watch undefeated Justify breeze 4 furlongs in :46.80 in preparation for the Belmont Stakes on the Road to the #TripleCrown!
Splits: 12, 23.60 and 35.20. Out 5F :59.60 pic.twitter.com/WpBHERiwsE
— Kentucky Derby (@KentuckyDerby) May 29, 2018
After winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness crowns, Justify will enter the race with 4-5 odds as the clear favorite, but will face challenges from several contenders.
We're ready when you are, #Justify. #BelmontStakes150: https://t.co/4yQnJRWFI3 pic.twitter.com/Od5fEeRGHA
— Belmont Stakes (@BelmontStakes) May 20, 2018
Hofburg (4-1) did not race at the Preakness and is accordingly rested. Bravazo (8-1) finished second at the Preakness. Hofburg finished seventh at the Kentucky Derby. Bravazo has had an up-and-down career since it commenced in 2017. These are the two most notable challengers, but don’t rule out a charge from a sleeper.
In the last four years the winner of the Belmont Stakes has either been sired by Tapit or a Triple Crown winner.
The favorite in this race will obviously be Justify trying to win the 13th Triple Crown.
The likely second choice? Hofburg.
Sired by Tapit.
— JeffMossDSR (@DetSportsRag) May 20, 2018
Bravazo galloped under the Twin Spires in preparation for the Belmont Stakes.
Watch the Churchill Downs-based Belmont hopefuls train each morning live on @KentuckyDerby Twitter. pic.twitter.com/xTSxFrGC6p
— Churchill Downs (@ChurchillDowns) May 25, 2018
The 2018 Belmont Stakes in Elmont, N.Y., will commence Friday, June 9, at 6:37 p.m. EST. Coverage will begin at 9 a.m. EST on NBC.
Betting Information
BetDSI Sportsbook has released full betting odds for the Belmont Stakes. Check out the lines below.
Justify (4-5)
Hofburg (4-1)
Bravazo (8-1)
Tenfold (10-1)
Blended Citizen (14-1)
Vino Rosso (9-1)
Free Drop Billy (50-1)
Gronkowski (69-1)