Popular Horse Racing Photographer Shares “Thrilled” Statement as Last Leg of American Triple Crown Moves to New Destination

The Triple Crown Races have been a crown of the horse racing calendars through the years. Racing through the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes the series has been in existence for decades. However, due to its complex nature and competition level, only a few have ever won the Triple Crown title. These races, embracing all of its traditions have maintained a system throughout. But the year 2024 has varied views on the board.

For years, the Triple Crown has been raced at specific locations. Churchill Downs, Pimlico Park, and Belmont Park have consistently been the race tracks for the occasion. However, development projects on the latter grounds have caused a shift in the venues for 2024 and possibly further. The announcement on the same, evoked a response from the enthusiasts online.

Horse racing photographer shares views

On December 6th, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Belmont Stakes were to be held at Saratoga Race Course due to massive renovation. Horse Racing photographer and enthusiast, Samantha Decker, a Saratoga native took to X to share her excitement on the news. “Big news yesterday for racing and for us Saratogians. I am thrilled and I also could care less about the change in distance,” she wrote posting a tweet.

The Belmont Stakes was the longest course of the Triple Crown Series. Boosting a distance of a mile and a half, Belmont was the last of the series to conclude the season. As for the Saratoga, the horse racing venue hosts a ground 1 1⁄8 mile long; which is smaller than the shortest track of the series.

Belmont Park and stakes to witness new avatar

In May 2023, the New York Racing Association secured a loan of $455m for the Belmont Park Project. Despite undergoing opposition, the loan came through to put the plan in force. Upon launch, the project is estimated to last through 2 years for completion. “This is likely a two-year endeavor” NYRA president and CEO David O’Rourke said. “We’re going to get it right, and we’re going to improve on it each year.” 

Also Read: Watch: Horse Racing Icon’s Joyous Celebration As He Unveils Behind-the-Scenes Triumph With Stalwart Stallion

The shift in the venue is also expected to bring a shift in the audience’s reaction. The organization expects a crowd of about 50,000 due to various factors. An increase in the purse from $1.5 Million to $2 Million and a special four-day run are said to contribute to the vision. The races will most likely be back in Belmont by 2026.

Watch this story: Best Dressage Horse Whose Movements Could Even Compete With Ballerina’s Elegant Moves