Belmont Stakes benefits from thrilling finish
June 10, 2012NEW YORK (AP) - Even with the absence of I'll Have Another and his bid to win the Triple Crown, horse racing had a successful day at the Belmont Stakes. A close finish led to the second-largest amount of money wagered, strong attendance and higher television ratings, proving people will still watch the sport on its big days.
Fans were rewarded with the third thrilling finish of the Triple Crown series when Union Rags overcame Paynter in the closing strides to win by a neck. I'll Have Another's victory over Bodemeister in the Kentucky Derby was decided by 1 1/2 lengths. The chestnut colt followed up with an even closer neck victory over his rival in the Preakness, the same margin Union Rags won by Saturday at Belmont Park.