BELMONT PARK RACECOURSE
The largest dirt race track in the country can be found at Belmont Park, New York, which held its inaugural meeting on 4th May 1905. Its principal race is the Group One Belmont Stakes, which is the third and final leg of the Triple Crown. Fifty years after that first meeting the administration of the track moved to the New York Racing Association who have run it ever since.
	In October 1962 the old track witnessed its last race and a new grandstand, designed by Arthur Froehlich, was built over the period 1964 to 68 and finally opened at the meeting held on 20th May 1968.
The Belmont Stakes, run over 12 furlongs, was first run at Jerome Park in 1867 when won by the aptly named Ruthless. This remained its home for the next 23 years before moving to Morris Park. The race was first run at its current home in May 1905 and was won by Tanya. The most recent 2008 winner was Da'Tara ridden by Alan Garcia.
	The track also hosts the Group One Jockey Club Cup, run over 10 furlongs, firstly run in 1919 when won by Purchase. The most recent two encounters in 2007 and 2008 have been won by the Robby Albarado ridden Curlin. Cigar gained a famous victory in 1995. Other principal Group One races include the Metropolitan Handicap and the Manhattan Turf Handicap.
If you have badges, racecards, pictures of the racecourse or further details about the course, including your memories, then email johnslusar@fsmail.net