America received some shocking and disappointing news on Friday when it was announced that I'll Have Another had withdrawn from the 2012 Belmont Stakes with an injury and would be retiring. Just like that, any hope of seeing the first Triple Crown winner in over 30 years went up in smoke.
Those who felt they no longer had a reason to watch the Belmont Stakes on Saturday certainly missed out. The end result was another thrilling, come-from-behind win in the home stretch, just as I'll Have Another had delivered in the Kentucky Derby and the Prekness Stakes.
This time, it was betting favorite Union Rags overtaking the lead runner in the last few hundred yards. Union Rags made his move in the home stretch and overtook Paynter for a photo finish, while Atigun came in third. Union Rags redeemed himself after a tremendously disappointing finish at the Kentucky Derby. Fellow favorite Dullahan fell behind early and was left in the dust.
Stick with this storystream for updates, results and more from the 2012 Belmont Stakes. For full time horse racing news and analysis, check out And Down The Stretch They Come.
