Overview
- The 158th Belmont Stakes will run at Saratoga Race Course over 1 1/4 miles on Saturday, June 6, with a $2 million purse and a 7:04 p.m. post time.
- Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo skipped the Preakness and, trainer Cherie DeVaux said, is due to arrive at Saratoga on Monday, June 1 to prepare for the race.
- Early betting lists Renegade as the 2-1 favorite and Golden Tempo at 3-1, with Chief Wallabee, Commandment and Emerging Market among other leading contenders.
- SportsLine expert Jody Demling published Belmont picks that do not include Golden Tempo and instead highlights a longshot he expects to surge, a stance that has already influenced wagering conversations.
- Saratoga’s shorter layout shortens the classic test and favors horses suited to a faster early pace, a change that trainers and bettors say could alter closing-rally strategies and final odds.