Belmont Stakes Wagering at Belmont Park - June 7, 2008

The prestigious Belmont Stakes, held annually in June at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown Championship - and one of the biggest in American horse betting.

The race is 1.5 miles (2.4km) in length, making it the longest of the royal trio of races, and is a thoroughbred horse race for three-year-old colts and geldings carrying a weight of 126 pounds (57 kg) and for fillies with a weight of 121 pounds (55 kg).

The Belmont Stakes is the oldest of the three Triple Crown events. As well, it is the fourth oldest race overall in North America.

The white carnation is the traditional flower of the Belmont Stakes. The blanket requires approximately 350 carnations, glued to green velveteen spread and weighs between 30 and 40 pounds. The flowers are shipped from California or Bogota, Columbia. The Belmont Breeze is the official drink of the Belmont Stakes.

Of the 129 Belmont runnings through 1997, the favorite has won 58 times, including 9 out of the last 25. The highest-priced Belmont Stakes winner was Sarava who paid $142.50 in 2002. The lowest $2 win mutual was Triple Crown winner Count Fleet paying $2.10 in 1943.

Belmont Stakes News and Betting Information