Belmont Stakes 2024: Dornoch Scores Upset Victory, Jayson Werth’s West Paces Racing Takes Home $1.2 Million

Dornoch (17-1) pulled off a stunning upset victory in the 156th Belmont Stakes, claiming victory and a blanket of carnations for West Paces Racing, co-owned by former MLB All-Star and World Series champion Jayson Werth. Jockey Luis Saez secured his second Belmont Stakes win, having previously won aboard Essential Quality in 2021.

The race saw Preakness Stakes winner Seize The Gray take an early lead, but ultimately fade as Dornoch and Mindframe surged ahead around the far turn and into the stretch. Despite being the favorite, Sierra Leone made a late move to secure third place, while Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan failed to make an impact.

This year marks the sixth consecutive year that three different horses have won the three legs of the Triple Crown. The last time a horse won more than one leg in a year was Justify in 2018. Additionally, the conclusion of the 2024 Triple Crown season signals the end of Bob Baffert’s ban at the Kentucky Derby, allowing the polarizing trainer to participate in all three races for the first time since 2020.

In terms of payouts, Dornoch paid out $37.40 for a win, $17.60 for a place, and $8.10 for a show. The exacta, trifecta, and superfecta bets also yielded significant returns for lucky bettors.

Overall, the 156th Belmont Stakes provided an exciting and unexpected outcome, showcasing the thrill and unpredictability of horse racing at its finest.