Animal Kingdom, a 5-2 favorite at post time of the 143rd running of the Belmont Stakes, was never a factor in the race on Saturday evening, finishing sixth as 24-1 long shot Ruler On Ice stunned the 12-horse field.
Animal Kingdom, the Kentucky Derby winner, suffered a disastrous start. Breaking from the No. 9 post position he lagged well behind, then clipped the heel of Monzon and nearly threw rider John Velazquez.
The jockey did eventually regain control of the horse, but Animal Kingdom spent most of the race in last place well behind the 11-horse pack in front of him. Animal Kingdom did make a late charge around the far turn, briefly getting into contention from the far outside on the backstretch. The difficult ride took its toll, however, and Animal Kingdom could not maintain the late charge.
The sixth-place finish put Animal Kingdom one spot behind Preakness winner Shackleford in the overall results.