Bob Ehalt

Once upon a time, the Preakness Stakes (G1) used to be an encore in Baltimore. A collection of top finishers in the Kentucky Derby (G1) would move on to Pimlico Race Course to continue old or new rivalries in the Preakness. But not anymore.

Counting Stars, third behind Always a Runner and Meaning in the May 1 Kentucky Oaks (G1) at Churchill Downs, avenges that loss with a 3 3/4-length victory in the June 5 Acorn Stakes (G1) at Saratoga Race Course.

The betting public has already spoken in regards to the June 6 Belmont Stakes (G1). The Kentucky Derby (G1) runner-up stands as a heavy even-money favorite in the win pool as of 7 p.m. ET June 5.

The rigors of traveling to and competing in the Middle East can be withering for some horses, but not Reef Runner.

Golden Tempo, who sprung a 23-1 upset in the Kentucky Derby (G1) five weeks ago at Churchill Downs and skipped the Preakness Stakes (G1), used his same late-running style to capture the $2 million Belmont Stakes (G1) June 6 at Saratoga Race Course.

Golden Tempo shook off a challenge from Commandment and edged clear in the final strides to win the Belmont Stakes June 6 at Saratoga, taking two-thirds of the 2026 Triple Crown. (Eclipse Sportswire)

Golden Tempo, who sprung a 23-1 upset in the Kentucky Derby (G1) five weeks ago at Churchill Downs and skipped the Preakness Stakes (G1), used his same late-running style to capture the $2 million Belmont Stakes (G1) June 6 at Saratoga Race Course.

The year may be halfway over, but Golden Tempo seems a lot more than halfway to being crowned the champion 3-year-old male.

As the Belmont Stakes' (G1) three-year residency at Saratoga Race Course comes to an end, New York Racing Association CEO and president Dave O'Rourke has some thank-yous for the classic's temporary home.

Sept. 18 looms as the important moment in NYRA's 71-year history.