Today’s horse race at Saratoga Race Course, the centerpiece of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, was anything but ordinary. Heavy rains swept through Saratoga Springs, forcing organizers to postpone several big races and leaving fans, trainers, and jockeys scrambling. The much-anticipated Belmont Stakes, scheduled for 7:04 p.m. ET, remains the marquee event, but the soggy conditions have already reshaped the day’s schedule and added an extra layer of drama for everyone involved. With the eyes of the racing world fixed on Saratoga, this horse race today is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the year.
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Belmont on Broadway: The Heart of the Action
The Belmont Stakes is more than just a horse race today—it’s a celebration of tradition, speed, and spectacle. For 2025, Saratoga Race Course is hosting the event while Belmont Park undergoes renovations, marking the second consecutive year the race has been run at this historic venue. The change in location hasn’t dampened enthusiasm; if anything, it’s amplified it. The festival atmosphere is electric, with live music, star-studded parties, and family-friendly activities filling the grounds from June 4 through June 8.
Despite the rain, thousands of fans have gathered, many sporting colorful hats and sipping signature drinks like the Belmont Jewel. The festival’s main attraction, however, is always the horses. This year’s field features a rare Triple Crown rematch: Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty, Preakness winner Journalism, and Kentucky Derby third-place finisher Baeza. All three skipped or missed the Preakness, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown in the Belmont.
Meet This Year’s Belmont Stakes Field
The 2025 Belmont Stakes field is stacked with talent. Here’s a quick rundown of the eight contenders, along with their morning-line odds:
- Hill Road (10-1): A strong contender who debuted in the US with a third-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile.
- Sovereignty (2-1): The Kentucky Derby winner, known for his late-running style and ability to handle sloppy tracks.
- Rodriguez (6-1): Trained by Bob Baffert, this newcomer is making his Triple Crown debut after missing the Derby and Preakness due to a foot issue.
- Uncaged (30-1): A longshot with plenty of heart but facing steep odds.
- Crudo (15-1): Another outsider hoping for a breakthrough performance.
- Baeza (4-1): The Kentucky Derby third-place finisher, known for his closing speed.
- Heart of Honor (30-1): A true underdog in the field.
- Journalism (8-5): The Preakness winner and morning-line favorite for the Belmont.
The race is shaping up to be a three-horse battle between Sovereignty, Journalism, and Baeza, but surprises are always possible in horse racing—especially on a rain-soaked track.
Where to Eat and Drink Around Saratoga
Saratoga Springs is renowned for its vibrant food and drink scene. On race days, local restaurants and bars overflow with fans looking to celebrate or commiserate. The Belmont Jewel, a signature cocktail featuring bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate, is a must-try. For those seeking a more substantial meal, options range from classic steakhouse fare to farm-to-table cuisine.
Here are a few top picks for dining and drinking around Saratoga:
- The Lodge: Known for its rustic charm and hearty American fare.
- 15 Church: A modern American restaurant with an acclaimed wine list.
- Druthers Brewing Company: Craft beer and pub food in a lively setting.
- Saratoga National Golf Club Restaurant: Upscale dining with panoramic views.
No matter where you choose to eat, the energy in town is infectious—especially when the horse race today is the main event.
Making of the Belmont Jewel: A Signature Sip
The Belmont Jewel is more than just a drink; it’s a tradition. Created to honor the Belmont Stakes, this cocktail has become a fan favorite. The recipe is simple but effective: bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, served over ice and garnished with a lemon wedge. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfectly suited for a day at the races—rain or shine.
Bartenders across Saratoga have put their own spin on the Belmont Jewel, but the classic version remains the most popular. For those watching the horse race today from home, mixing up a batch is a great way to join in the festivities.
Betting 101: How to Wager at Saratoga Race Course
Betting is a big part of the horse race today experience, and Saratoga Race Course makes it easy for both newcomers and seasoned gamblers. Here’s a quick guide to placing your bets:
- Win: Bet on a horse to finish first.
- Place: Bet on a horse to finish in the top two.
- Show: Bet on a horse to finish in the top three.
- Exacta: Pick the first two finishers in exact order.
- Trifecta: Pick the first three finishers in exact order.
- Superfecta: Pick the first four finishers in exact order.
Odds fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the tote board. For the Belmont Stakes, Journalism is the morning-line favorite at 8-5, with Sovereignty close behind at 2-1. Baeza and Rodriguez are also getting plenty of attention from bettors.
Were You Seen at the Belmont Gala?
The Belmont Gala is one of the highlights of the festival, drawing celebrities, socialites, and racing enthusiasts. This year’s event was no exception, with glamorous outfits, live music, and plenty of photo opportunities. Even with the rain, the gala was a sparkling affair, setting the tone for the rest of the festival.
Rainy Conditions Add Drama to Horse Race Today
Mother Nature has thrown a curveball at this year’s Belmont Stakes. Heavy rains forced the postponement of several undercard races, but the main event—the Belmont Stakes—remains on schedule. The track is likely to be sloppy, which could favor horses with experience on wet surfaces. Sovereignty, for example, won the Kentucky Derby on a sloppy track, so he’s no stranger to adverse conditions.
Trainers and jockeys are adjusting their strategies accordingly. Some horses thrive in the mud, while others struggle. For bettors, the weather adds an extra layer of complexity—and excitement.
Expert Predictions and Surprising Picks
With such a competitive field, expert predictions are all over the map. Some analysts are fading Sovereignty, despite his strong record, and instead backing Journalism or a longshot like Hill Road or Rodriguez. The consensus is that this horse race today is anyone’s to win, especially with the unpredictable weather.
Top racing analyst Michelle Yu, who nailed the Kentucky Derby exacta this year, is high on a double-digit longshot to finish in the top two. She’s also bullish on a horse who “has never looked better training.” For those looking to place a wager, her insights are worth considering.
The Thrill of the Belmont Stakes: A Fan’s Perspective
For fans, the Belmont Stakes is more than just a horse race today—it’s a chance to be part of history. The atmosphere at Saratoga is electric, with cheers, gasps, and applause echoing through the grandstand. Whether you’re there in person or watching from home, the excitement is palpable.
The rain has only added to the drama, making this year’s event one for the books. As post time approaches, anticipation builds. Will Journalism live up to his favorite status? Can Sovereignty repeat his Kentucky Derby magic? Or will a dark horse steal the show?
A Complete Belmont Racing Festival Guide
The Belmont Racing Festival spans five days, featuring over 25 stakes races and more than $11 million in purses. Each day offers something unique, from live music to family-friendly activities. The festival is a celebration of horse racing at its finest, with something for everyone.
Highlights include:
- Intercontinental (G2): A top turf race for fillies and mares.
- Poker (G3): Another exciting turf event.
- DK Horse Acorn (G1): A showcase for three-year-old fillies.
- Ogden Phipps (G1): A premier race for older fillies and mares.
- Hill ‘N’ Dale Metropolitan Handicap (G1): A highlight for older horses.
The festival is a must-attend for any racing fan, rain or shine.
Conclusion: A Day to Remember at Saratoga
Today’s horse race at Saratoga is a testament to the resilience and passion of the racing community. Despite the rain, the spirit of the Belmont Stakes shines through. Fans, trainers, and jockeys alike are ready for whatever the day brings. Whether you’re betting, sipping a Belmont Jewel, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this is a day you won’t forget.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action—tune in, place your bets, and cheer on your favorite horse as they chase glory in the Belmont Stakes.