all in The Life

Visitors to central Kentucky’s horse country have many options to consider when scheduling a tour. They can visit one of several prominent Thoroughbred stud farms to see firsthand how the breeding and foaling process works, learn about horse health at veterinary clinics, or go behind the scenes at other businesses that support the state’s signature industry. But for an unforgettable introductory experience, no location beats Keeneland.

Fasig-Tipton Co. is the oldest Thoroughbred auction company in North America, and has an established presence in various market sectors, starting with the epicenter of Thoroughbred breeding, central Kentucky, and extending to Saratoga Springs, N.Y., the 2-year-old auctions in Florida, the Timonium, Md., area serving the Midlantic region, and this year, to Santa Anita Park in California.

The Belmont Stakes Presented by NYRA Bets June 8 closed an exciting Triple Crown season with an 80-degree day, a terrific crowd, and fantastic races.

Although there will be no Triple Crown on the line when the 151st Belmont Stakes presented by NYRA Bets is run on Saturday at Belmont Park, the tradition-rich mile-and-a-half contest still carries great weight. The last of the spring classics could establish a leader of the 3-year-old division, depending on the outcome.

The first thing most people who visit Belmont Park for the first time notice is how big the track is. It’s unusually big. The turns are wider than most tracks. The half-mile pole sits where the ⅜ pole is at other tracks. A mile and an eighth race most everywhere in America starts and finishes in front of the grandstand, with the horses going around two turns. At Belmont it’s a one-turn affair. The width and breadth of the track can feel overwhelming to riders.

newsletter sign-up

Stay up-to-date with the best from America's Best Racing!

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube