The last Triple Crown winner in horse racing was Justify, a three-year-old colt who won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in 2018. Justify became only the 13th horse to achieve the Triple Crown, and the first since Affirmed in 1978. Justify’s victory was particularly impressive because he won all three races by a combined margin of over 20 lengths. He is considered one of the greatest racehorses of all time.
Justify: The 13th Triple Crown Winner
On June 9, 2018, Justify became the 13th horse to win the coveted Triple Crown, a feat that had not been accomplished in 37 years. His victory was a testament to his exceptional athleticism, unwavering determination, and the skill of his trainer, Bob Baffert.
A Dominant Run
- Kentucky Derby (May 5, 2018): Won by 2 1/2 lengths
- Preakness Stakes (May 19, 2018): Won by 3 1/2 lengths
- Belmont Stakes (June 9, 2018): Won by 1 3/4 lengths
Justify’s Pedigree
Justify was bred for greatness, with a lineage that includes some of the most renowned horses in racing history:
| Sire | Dam |
|---|---|
| Scat Daddy | Stage Magic |
A Rising Star
Even before his Triple Crown triumph, Justify had shown immense talent and promise:
- Won the Santa Anita Derby (Grade I)
- Broke the track record at Santa Anita Park
Retirement and Legacy
After his historic Triple Crown victory, Justify was retired to stud, where he continues to produce exceptional offspring. His legacy as one of the greatest racehorses of all time is secure, and his name will forever be etched in the annals of horse racing.
American Pharoah: The Last Triple Crown Winner
American Pharoah made history in 2015 by becoming the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years.
American Pharoah’s Legacy
American Pharoah’s Triple Crown victory marked a resurgence in the sport of horse racing and inspired a new generation of fans:
- His dominance on the track captivated audiences and brought unprecedented attention to the sport.
- He became a symbol of excellence and determination, not only in racing but beyond.
- His success inspired a wave of younger jockeys and trainers to pursue their dreams.
The following table summarizes American Pharoah’s Triple Crown victories:
| Race | Date | Track |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Derby | May 2, 2015 | Churchill Downs |
| Preakness Stakes | May 16, 2015 | Pimlico Race Course |
| Belmont Stakes | June 6, 2015 | Belmont Park |
The Road to the Triple Crown
Winning the Triple Crown in horse racing is a rare and prestigious feat. Only 13 horses in history have achieved this remarkable accomplishment, the last of which was Justify in 2018.
The Triple Crown Races
- Kentucky Derby – Run on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky
- Preakness Stakes – Run three weeks after the Kentucky Derby at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland
- Belmont Stakes – Run three weeks after the Preakness Stakes at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York
Justify’s Historic Run
Justify’s road to the Triple Crown was nothing short of remarkable. He won his first five races in dominating fashion, setting track records at both the Santa Anita Derby and the Kentucky Derby.
In the Preakness Stakes, Justify faced a tough challenge from Bravazo but emerged victorious by half a length. The Belmont Stakes was the most challenging race of the three, with Justify facing a stretch duel with Gronkowski. However, Justify’s determination and class prevailed as he pulled away to win by 1 ¾ lengths, becoming the 13th Triple Crown winner in history.
| Race | Date | Winning Margin |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Derby | May 5, 2018 | 2 ½ lengths |
| Preakness Stakes | May 19, 2018 | ½ length |
| Belmont Stakes | June 9, 2018 | 1 ¾ lengths |
Legacy
Justify’s Triple Crown victory cemented his place in horse racing history. He became only the second horse since Secretariat in 1973 to win the coveted Triple Crown while remaining undefeated. Justify retired to stud after his Belmont Stakes triumph, leaving behind a legacy of speed, determination, and class.
Triple Crown Winners
The Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing is one of the most prestigious achievements in horse racing, and only 13 horses have ever won all three races: the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes. The Triple Crown is considered the ultimate test of a horse’s speed, stamina, and versatility.
The last horse to win the Triple Crown was Justify in 2018. Justify was a dominant force on the track, winning all six of his starts in 2018, including the Kentucky Derby by 2 1/2 lengths, the Preakness Stakes by 1 3/4 lengths, and the Belmont Stakes by 1 3/4 lengths.
Handicapping the Triple Crown
- Consider the horse’s running style. Some horses are front-runners, while others prefer to come from behind. The running style of a horse can have a big impact on its chances of winning a race.
- Look at the horse’s past performances. A horse that has consistently run well against top competition is more likely to be successful in the Triple Crown races.
- Evaluate the horse’s trainer and jockey. A good trainer and jockey can make a big difference in a horse’s performance.
- Consider the weather conditions. The weather conditions can have a significant impact on the outcome of a race.
| Year | Horse | Jockey | Trainer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1919 | Sir Barton | Johnny Loftus | H. Guy Bedwell |
| 1930 | Gallant Fox | Earl Sande | James E. Fitzsimmons |
| 1935 | Omaha | William Saunders | James E. Fitzsimmons |
| 1937 | War Admiral | Charley Kurtsinger | George H. “Pete” Bostwick |
| 1941 | Whirlaway | Eddie Arcaro | Ben A. Jones |
| 1943 | Count Fleet | Johnny Longden | Don Cameron |
| 1946 | Assault | Warren Mehrtens | Max Hirsch |
| 1948 | Citation | Albert Snider | Horace A. Jones |
| 1973 | Secretariat | Ron Turcotte | Lucien Laurin |
| 1977 | Seattle Slew | Jean Cruguet | Billy Turner |
| 1978 | Affirmed | Steve Cauthen | Laz Barrera |
| 2015 | American Pharoah | Victor Espinoza | Bob Baffert |
| 2018 | Justify | Mike Smith | Bob Baffert |
Well, there you have it, folks! After a thrill-ride of a read, you now know who the legendary last Triple Crown winner is. Remember, when you’re craving another dose of equestrian excitement, be sure to gallop back to our stable for more riveting horse racing stories. Until then, keep the reins tight and may your betting slips always be full of winners. Thanks for reading, and see you soon on the track!