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When Arcangelo crossed the finish line Saturday 1 1/2 lengths ahead of favorite Forte in the Belmont Stakes, history was made. Forty-seven year old trainer Jena Antonucci became the first female trainer to win a Triple Crown race; and, she won with a $35,000 yearling! It was another first for jockey Javier Castellano, as well. Prior to the 2023 racing season, Castellano was a combined 0-29 in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. This year, he won the Derby with Mage and and the Belmont with Arcangelo. Castellano had won the Preakness twice in 2006 and 2007.
Arcangelo covered the grueling mile and a half in 2:29.23 and received a 102 Beyer for his valiant effort. Much like Mage, Arcangelo has a big heart and lots of grit. In only his fifth career start, the three-year-old son of Arrogate found a tiny seam and bravely split horses to launch his winning bid. He earned $900,000 for his owners, Blue Rose Farm.
Both horses appear to be pointed to the Grade 1 Travers at Saratoga late this summer. That could be quite the dilemma for Castellano as he and his agent, P.J. Campo, will have to make a very tough choice.
Given the dark cloud that has been lingering over horse racing and the Triple Crown this year due to horse fatalities, scandals, and even toxic wildfire smoke (literally a dark cloud), it was quite exhilarating and refreshing to see the raw emotion and deep gratitude from both Antonucci and Castellano this week. Antonucci shattered a glass ceiling and Castellano is quite the comeback story as he was sick, injured and considering retirement just a couple of years ago.
As always, I am super excited about the Ascot and Saratoga meets coming up. Royal Ascot begins on June 20th and Opening Day at Saratoga is July 13th. However, Ascot will never be the same without Queen Elizabeth II. Her passion for the sport was palpable…and she loved her hats. I do too!!!
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