The 2012 Belmont Stakes was dealt a huge blow when I'll Have Another was scratched the day before the race due to injury. The horse was the overwhelming favorite, and had the opportunity to become horse racing's first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed did so in 1978. But, despite the absence of I'll Have Another, the Belmont provided an exciting finish, as Union Rags surpassed Paynter for the lead in the final stretch, resulting in a photo finish.
Union Rags opened the day as a 3/1 favorite to win the race, while Paynter was a 7/2 favorite. Paynter led for most of the way, but failed to hold off Union Rags in the final 100 yards.
A bet on Union Rags paid $7.50. A two dollar trifecta of 3-9 paid $31.40 and a one dollar trifecta of 3-9-4 paid $248.00.
For more on the 2012 Belmont Stakes, please be sure to check out our blog And Down The Stretch They Come along with SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.