Historic Equine Nicknames: Unusual Horse Monikers Unearthed in Belmont Stakes Lore

The Belmont Stakes, a famous race on the United States schedule, has seen its fair share of memorable moments over the years. From horses named after spicy condiments to those bred for success in the race itself, the Belmont Stakes has showcased a diverse array of champions.

In 1968, Stage Door Johnny made headlines by denying the Derby winner a chance at Triple Crown immortality. This horse, named after the Belmont Stakes itself, went on to win the Saranac Handicap and Dwyer Handicap.

Tabasco Cat, another horse with an unusual name, won the Belmont Stakes in 1994, as well as the Preakness Stakes. This Irish-trained horse, a rare success for Ireland on the Triple Crown circuit, amassed over $2.3 million in prize money during his career.

Lemon Drop Kid, a horse forced to bypass the Preakness Stakes after finishing ninth in the Kentucky Derby, went on to win the Belmont Stakes in 1999. Trained by Scotty Schulhofer, Lemon Drop Kid later added further notable victories to his resume in the forms of the Haskell and Pimlico Special Handicap.

In 1987, Bet Twice denied long-time rival Alysheba the Triple Crown by winning the Belmont Stakes. Bet Twice, who won ten of his 26 career starts and accumulated over $3.3 million in prize money, also claimed victories in the Haskell and Pimlico Special Handicap.

Some Belmont Stakes winners with notably distinctive names in the past include Holy Bull, Ghostzapper, Shackleford, and Palace Malice. These horses have added to the race's rich history and ensured its place as one of the most prestigious races in the United States.

In 2009, Summer Bird won the Belmont Stakes, trained by Tim Ice. Summer Bird won four of his eight starts during his career, and his victory marked a significant moment in the race's history.

In 2025, the Belmont Stakes will be staged at Saratoga, and a high-quality field is expected for the Grade One race. Despite the absence of a new Triple Crown winner, the race is sure to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of horse racing talent. Go And Go, who finished seventh in the Travers Stakes and was pulled up in the Breeders' Cup Classic, may have peaked with his Belmont Stakes glory, but his name will forever be etched in the race's history.

Historic Equine Nicknames: Unusual Horse Monikers Unearthed in Belmont Stakes Lore