A Look Back: 1973 Belmont Stakes

Secretariat is all alone in the stretch, winning the Belmont Stakes by a record 31 lengths in a world-record time of 2:24 to become racing's ninth Triple Crown winner. (Photo courtesy of BelmontStakes.com - You can see a video of this race by clicking here)

Just like 1978, one part of the race call of the 1973 Belmont Stakes stands out, particularly in reference to none other than Triple Crown winner Secretariat.

"HE IS MOVING LIKE A TREMENDOUS MACHINE!!!!!!!!!!"

Jockey Ron Turcotte did not break a sweat aboard the horse called "Big Red," dueling early with Sham down the backstretch before turning him back with about six furlongs left in the race. Sham faded to last in the five-horse field while Secretariat continued his run into the far turn of the mile-and-a-half race well clear of eventual runner-up Twice A Prince. In fact, Secretariat was only in front by seven lengths with a half-mile left to run when he went into the far turn uncontested, winning the race by a record 31 lengths in a performance that will never be matched, no matter how hard anyone may try.