Belmont Stakes 2024: Everything You Need to Know for Race Day

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Belmont Stakes 2024: Everything You Need to Know for Race Day The Belmont Stakes is one of the most prestigious races in the Triple Crown series, following the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Known as the “Test of the Champion,” this race challenges horses with its demanding distance and high stakes. Fans eagerly await the thrilling competition, where the finest thoroughbreds and their skilled jockeys will vie for victory.

This article will cover everything you need to know about the Belmont Stakes 2024, from the event schedule and critical participants to travel tips and local highlights. Get ready to immerse yourself in one of horse racing’s most iconic events and discover all it offers.

Temporary Relocation

This year, the race will take place at the Saratoga Race Course primarily due to a significant $455 million renovation project at Belmont Park. Saratoga Race Course, known for its rich history and picturesque setting, provides a unique backdrop for this year’s race.

The relocation to Saratoga marks the fourth time in history that the Belmont Stakes will be held outside its traditional venue.

The race distance has been adjusted from 1 1/2 miles to 1 1/4 miles to accommodate the shorter track at Saratoga. This change is necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of the race while still offering a challenging test for the competing horses and their jockeys. The temporary move adds a new chapter to the storied history of the Belmont Stakes, offering fans a fresh and exciting experience in a beloved racing locale.

Racing Schedule

The Belmont Stakes Racing Festival will feature an action-packed schedule with 24 stakes races over four days, boasting a total purse of $10.25 million. The festival’s highlight is the $2 million Belmont Stakes, which will be held on June 8, 2024. This critical race attracts top competitors and is eagerly awaited by fans and racing enthusiasts.

Attendance for the event is capped at 50,000 to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. While tickets for Belmont Stakes Day have already sold out, tickets for other festival days are still available.

What to Expect at the Track

Fans can look forward to watching training sessions on the main track on Thursday and Sunday mornings. Entry is through gates C and D, and free picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis during these sessions. However, there will be no access to the main track for training on Friday and Saturday.

On Thursday and Sunday, gates open at 11 A.M. On Friday, they open at 10:30 A.M. For the main event on Belmont Stakes Day, gates will open early at 9 A.M., with the first race starting at 10:45 A.M. Visitors are reminded that reentry is not permitted during the festival, and all transactions, including food, beverages, and tickets, must be cashless, except in the official Saratoga store.

Visitors can bring a folding chair and a small cooler, but large items, alcohol, and professional photography equipment are prohibited. Idina Menzel will headline the entertainment on Belmont Stakes Day, adding to the event’s excitement.

Top Contenders

As the excitement for the Belmont Stakes 2024 builds, all eyes are on the top contenders who are set to compete in this prestigious race. Here’s a look at some of the leading horses expected to make a significant impact:

  • Seize the Grey

  • Sierra Leone

  • Fierceness

  • Antiquarian

  • The Wine Steward

  • Honor Marie

  • Mystik Dan

  • Thorpedo Anna

  • Dornoch

These horses have all shown exceptional talent and potential, making the Belmont Stakes 2024 an event full of excitement and fierce competition. Racing fans can look forward to a thrilling race day as these top contenders vie for victory in one of horse racing’s most prestigious events. For the best experience, Belmont Stakes online betting offers a convenient way to participate in the excitement and place bets on their favorite contenders.

Street Closures and Transportation

Several streets in Saratoga Springs will be closed for the Belmont on Broadway concert and festival activities. Broadway will be closed from 5 A.M. on Wednesday, June 5, to 2 A.M. on Thursday, June 6, for stage setup and the event. Additional closures south on Broadway to Washington and Springs streets will start at 3 P.M. on Wednesday. Detour signs will be posted to direct traffic.

The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) will offer shuttle services to help ease festival-goer transportation. Shuttles will run from 3 P.M. to 11 P.M. on Wednesday, providing transportation from the Route 50 lot at Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the Wilton Mall bus stop to the corner of High Rock Avenue and Lake Avenue. This service aims to help visitors reach the concert and other festival activities conveniently and safely.

Security and Safety Measures

A robust law enforcement presence, including city police, county sheriff’s deputies, state police, and the FBI, will ensure safety throughout the festival. Drones and horse-mounted units will also be utilised. Sheriff Michael Zurlo advises visitors to use ride-sharing services and designated drivers to prevent drunk driving.

Chief of Police Tyler McIntosh highlighted the importance of patience due to potential traffic delays and emphasised the city’s preparedness for the event.

Conclusion

The 2024 Belmont Stakes promises to be an unforgettable event. So, don’t miss your chance to be part of the action at Saratoga Race Course or catch the excitement from home through online streaming and betting options. Stay updated with the latest news and schedule, secure your tickets for the available days, and prepare for an extraordinary experience.