THE STORY
In the 2004 Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park, Smarty Jones, aiming to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978, led the race but was overtaken by 36-1 long shot Birdstone in the final stretch, finishing second by a length. This defeat ended Smarty Jones' undefeated streak and dashed his Triple Crown bid.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Smarty Jones
WHY IT MATTERS
Smarty Jones' near-miss in the 2004 Belmont Stakes remains one of horse racing's most memorable moments, highlighting the unpredictability of the sport and the challenges of achieving the Triple Crown.