Trainer Jena Antonucci achieves a historic milestone with Arcangelo’s victory in the 155th Belmont Stakes

Estimated read time 7 min read

The 155th Belmont Stakes witnessed a remarkable moment as Trainer Jena Antonucci etched her name in the annals of horse racing history. Coincidentally, this groundbreaking achievement occurred exactly 50 years after Secretariat’s iconic victory, which clinched the revered Triple Crown. Amidst the thunderous cheers emanating from the Belmont Park spectators, another significant sound reverberated through the air—the resounding shattering of horse racing’s long-standing glass ceiling.

In a thrilling display of skill and strategy, Trainer Jena Antonucci achieved an extraordinary feat at the 155th Belmont Stakes. As Arcangelo skillfully maneuvered through the innermost path and surged ahead of the frontrunner, National Treasure, crossing the finish line first, history was made. With this resounding victory, Antonucci cemented her place in horse racing history as the first-ever female trainer to win the prestigious Belmont Stakes. Moreover, her triumph also marked a significant milestone as the first female trainer to claim victory in any of the coveted Triple Crown races.

Trainer Jena Antonucci Makes History in 155th Belmont Stakes with Arcangelo’s Victory

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Trainer Jena Antonucci’s remarkable accomplishment in the 155th Belmont Stakes solidifies her position as one of the few women to ever saddle a horse in the prestigious race. Throughout the 155-year history of the event, she joins a select group of only 11 women who have had the honor. Arcangelo’s victory is a testament to the horse’s prowess, having previously secured a spot in the field by triumphing in the Grade 3 Peter Pan at Belmont Park. Crossing the finish line with a 1½ length lead over the favored Forte, Arcangelo showcased his dominance, while Tapit Trice made a strong push to secure third place.

Trainer Jena Antonucci’s Triumph in the Face of Adversity: A Testament to Perseverance and Determination

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In a testament to perseverance and determination, Trainer Jena Antonucci defied the odds and emerged triumphant. Reflecting on her remarkable journey, she emphasized the importance of resilience and self-determination, encouraging others to create their own opportunities when faced with adversity. Despite having only trained thoroughbred horses for a relatively short span of 13 years, the 47-year-old Antonucci orchestrated an astounding upset. Her victory serves as a reminder that experience is not solely measured by time, but rather by the passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment that one brings to their craft.Trainer Jena Antonucci’s remarkable achievement is a testament to the power of never giving up.

Trainer Jena Antonucci’s Inspiring Journey: Unveiling the Unbreakable Bond Between Trainers and Horses in the World of Racing

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The journey of personal and professional growth often entails facing challenges head-on and persevering through adversity. Trainer Jena Antonucci eloquently expressed the struggles she encountered and the determination required to secure her place in the industry. In the realm of horse racing, it becomes apparent that the horses themselves are unbiased judges of character. They recognize the true essence of individuals, irrespective of external factors. The profound belief that Arcangelo, and horses in general, have in their trainers and teams is a testament to the unwavering bond and mutual trust that can be forged between humans and these magnificent animals.

Arcangelo’s Stunning Upset: A Tale of Triumph and Lucrative Returns at the Belmont Stakes

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Despite being sent off at 8-1 odds, Arcangelo delivered an impressive performance, rewarding those who believed in him. With a $2 bet, he generated a payout of $17.80 for a win, along with $7.20 for placing and $4.90 for showing. Forte, the favorite, paid out at $4.30 and $3.30, while Tapit Trice provided a payout of $4.10. Arcangelo’s journey to success was marked by a relatively low number of races, and it was only in his third career start on March 18 at Gulfstream Park that he secured his maiden victory. Subsequently, he showcased his strength with a commendable win in the Peter Pan on May 13.

Synergy and Success: Jon Ebbert and Trainer Jena Antonucci Forge a Winning Partnership with Arcangelo at the Belmont Stakes

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Jon Ebbert from Blue Rose Farm, the proud owner of Arcangelo, expressed unwavering belief in his horse, acknowledging the vital role that the horse played in their success. The remarkable synergy within their team was credited for their achievements, as they demonstrated exceptional unity and collaboration. Ebbert recognized the collective strength they possessed when working together. Trainer Jena Antonucci, the trailblazing trainer, attributed much credit to Ebbert for giving women an opportunity in the industry. She acknowledged that various factors aligned perfectly, leading to their triumph, and expressed gratitude for Ebbert’s support and belief in her abilities.

Jon’s Guiding Hand: A Young Owner’s Patient Approach Leads to Success and Growth in the Racing World

I am filled with deep gratitude towards Jon. Despite being a young owner, he exemplifies patience and understanding in allowing a horse to develop and reach its full potential. There is much to be learned from his approach, as he provides an environment that nurtures the growth and progress of the horses under his care. Jon’s willingness to give ample time for a horse’s development is commendable, and it has undoubtedly contributed to the success we have achieved together. I value his partnership and the valuable lessons he has taught me throughout this journey.

Arcangelo’s Brilliant Surge: Jockey Javier Castellano’s Strategic Moves Propel Them to Victory at the Belmont Stakes

During the race, Arcangelo maintained a position towards the back of the pack, settling in sixth place in the early stages. However, jockey Javier Castellano strategically started to advance Arcangelo as they approached the sweeping turn. As they made their way around the turn, Castellano skillfully guided Arcangelo towards an opening along the inside rail, positioning them for a strong challenge. With the finish line in sight, Arcangelo displayed tremendous determination, gradually distancing themselves from the leading horse, National Treasure, during the final furlong of the race.

Javier Castellano’s Gratitude and Triumph: A Dream Fulfilled at the Belmont Stakes

Grateful for the opportunity, jockey Javier Castellano expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, as his first-ever win in the Belmont Stakes became a dream come true. This momentous victory thwarted trainer Bob Baffert’s bid for a consecutive triumph in the Triple Crown races. Baffert, who had made a comeback to the series after a two-year suspension following Medina Spirit’s positive drug test after winning the 2021 Kentucky Derby, faced disappointment as his horse, National Treasure, ultimately settled for sixth place among the field of nine contenders.

Baffert expressed his joy and happiness for Trainer Jena Antonucci’s historic win, acknowledging the challenging nature of the race for his horse, National Treasure. Jockey Johnny Velazquez had mentioned that National Treasure remained highly strung throughout the race, never finding the opportunity to relax. Despite this, National Treasure displayed great effort, providing a thrilling moment as they turned for home. Forte’s impressive surge in the closing moments of the race secured a second-place finish, marking a satisfying conclusion to a tumultuous five weeks for the 2022 Juvenile champion. Forte had been withdrawn from the Kentucky Derby as the favorite due to a foot injury, rendering him ineligible for the Preakness as well.

Challenges and Surprises at the Belmont Stakes: Forte’s Strong Surge, Angel of Empire Falls, and the Absence of Kentucky Derby Winner Mage

Recognizing the challenge of returning to competition after a 10-week break, trainer Todd Pletcher acknowledged the demanding task faced by Forte in the Belmont Stakes. Forte encountered some setbacks during the race, getting shuffled back in the pack. However, once he found clear running space on the outside, he displayed a strong late surge that unfortunately fell short due to the limited time remaining. Despite this, Pletcher noted that Forte continued to make an impact towards the end of the race. Angel of Empire, another contender trained by Brad Cox, was the second-favorite among bettors but failed to mount a challenge in the homestretch, finishing in a dead heat for fourth place with stablemate Hit Show.

In an intriguing turn of events, each of the three Triple Crown races in the current year witnessed a distinct winner. The Kentucky Derby victor, Mage, opted to forego the Belmont Stakes after finishing in third place in the Preakness. This decision contributed to an air of unpredictability and opened the door for new contenders to make their mark in the series. The absence of Mage added an element of excitement and uncertainty to the Belmont Stakes, allowing other talented horses to seize the opportunity and pursue victory in the final leg of the Triple Crown.

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