Tales From The Triple Crown - Uncovering the Legendary Stories

The Triple Crown is one of the most prestigious achievements in horse racing, consisting of three thoroughbred horse races: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Throughout the years, these races have produced countless tales that have become part of racing history. In this article, we will dive into the fascinating stories behind the Triple Crown, highlighting the triumphs, challenges, and unexpected twists that have captivated racing enthusiasts worldwide.

The Kentucky Derby

Known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," the Kentucky Derby is the first jewel of the Triple Crown, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky. The race is not only renowned for its fast-paced action but also for its vibrant traditions and passionate crowd. One legendary tale from the Kentucky Derby is the story of Secretariat, the 1973 Triple Crown winner who set a new record time of 1:59:40, which remains unbeaten until this day.

Tales from the Triple Crown

by Kathryn Lasky (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1395 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Preakness Stakes

Continuing the journey towards the Triple Crown is the Preakness Stakes, which takes place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. This race adds another layer of excitement, as the horse that triumphs in the Kentucky Derby faces off against new and determined contenders. One unforgettable tale from the Preakness Stakes is the story of American Pharoah, the 2015 Triple Crown winner who broke a 37-year-long drought, becoming the first horse to secure the crown since Affirmed in 1978.

The Belmont Stakes

The final hurdle in the Triple Crown quest is the Belmont Stakes, held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. As the longest race in the series, this grueling test of stamina often separates the contenders from the champions. A remarkable tale from the Belmont Stakes is the story of Seattle Slew, the 1977 Triple Crown winner who was not only unbeaten in the series but also became the first horse to win the Triple Crown while still undefeated.

Unforeseen Challenges and Near Misses

While the Triple Crown has seen its share of victors, it has also witnessed heartbreak and missed opportunities. In 2008, Big Brown captured the public's attention, winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes with ease. However, a hoof injury in the Belmont Stakes forced him to withdraw, dashing his hopes of becoming a Triple Crown winner. Similarly, in 2019, another promising contender, California Chrome, fell just short in the Belmont Stakes, finishing fourth and missing out on the elusive Triple Crown.

Legacy and Inspiring New Dreams

The Triple Crown continues to inspire new generations of race-goers, jockeys, and trainers alike. The stories of triumph and defeat, of legendary horses and their extraordinary performances, contribute to the timeless allure of this prestigious racing series. Each year, as the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes unfold, the hopes for a new Triple Crown winner are renewed, igniting a sense of anticipation and excitement across the horse racing community.

Tales From The Triple Crown are woven into the fabric of racing history, captivating audiences with their extraordinary moments and unexpected plot twists. With each passing year, the legends of horses like Secretariat, American Pharoah, and Seattle Slew serve as a reminder of the immense skill, athleticism, and bravery displayed on the track. The allure of the Triple Crown endures, as fans eagerly await the next chapter in this timeless saga.

Tales from the Triple Crown

by Kathryn Lasky (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1395 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In "Tales from the Triple Crown" award-winning racing writer Steve Haskin takes readers behind the scenes to introduce them to the trainers, jockeys, and horses seeking the world's most elusive sports prize. Feel the keen disappointment of trainer Bud Delp after Spectacular Bid loses his Triple Crown bid because of a stray safety pin. Witness Angel Cordero's frustration after winning the Kentucky Derby aboard Spend a Buck only to encounter a series of misadventures on his way home. Thrill to the exploits of Afleet Alex and Smarty Jones as they win two of the three legs of the Triple Crown. Mourn the untimely loss of Barbaro in a Preakness that shook the racing world. Their stories are among twenty-one in this volume that brings a new dimension to the repertoire of Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes reporting. Haskin's keen eye for a good story and conversational writing style make readers feel they are living the moment with him.