This afternoon about six o’clock a sleek stallion named Big Brown will bolt from the poll position, tear down the track at Belmont and in all likelihood win the Triple Crown, the first time a horse has done so since Affirmed in 1978. It’s all the more likely that Big Brown will triumph and enter the record books becaus e his chief rival in the Belmont, Casino Drive, has been scratched at the last minute due to a hoof injury.
Itonically, Big Brown has also had a hoof problem but his handlers say it has healed and he is sound to go.
There are two horses that might challenge Big Brown at least for part of the mile and a half race. One is Denis of Cork – naturally from Ireland who finished fifth in the Kentucky Derby. The other is Tale of Ekati. And I have to confess Tale of Ekati poses a problem for me. He is a Canadian horse in the sense that he is owned by a wealthy Canadian who made his money in prospecting and mining.
I don’t thin k a Candian-owned horse has ever won the Belmont. (Although Northern Dancer just missed after winning the Derby and the Preakness. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see a Canadian step into the winner’s circle later today?
On the other hand, I also want to pu ll for Big Brown to win the Belmont and make racing history.
So I’m torn.
What about you?
What an incredible upset.
Da’Tara (38 to 1) wins the Belmont. Big Brown finishes last.
Neil McKenty Weblog 