Funny Cide's victory in the 2003 Kentucky Derby set the stage for a thrilling pursuit of the Triple Crown. As the first New York-bred horse to win the Derby, he captured the imagination of racing fans and became a symbol of hope and determination. His journey through the Preakness and Belmont Stakes was filled with excitement and challenges.
The Preakness Stakes
Following his Kentucky Derby triumph, Funny Cide entered the Preakness Stakes as the betting favorite. The race
took place on a cold, wet day at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Despite the challenging conditions, Funny Cide delivered a dominant performance. Breaking from post position nine, he took the lead and never looked back, winning by an impressive nine and three-quarter lengths. This victory marked the second-largest margin in Preakness history.
Funny Cide's Preakness win solidified his status as a top contender for the Triple Crown. His performance earned him a Beyer Speed Figure of 114, and he became only the third New York-bred horse to win the Preakness. The excitement surrounding his potential Triple Crown victory reached a fever pitch as he prepared for the Belmont Stakes.
The Belmont Stakes
With the Triple Crown on the line, Funny Cide and his connections faced immense pressure leading up to the Belmont Stakes. The race, held at Belmont Park, is the most grueling of the three Triple Crown events, stretching a quarter mile longer than the Kentucky Derby. Despite the challenges, New Yorkers flocked to the track in near-record numbers, eager to witness history.
On race day, the weather added another layer of difficulty, as rain soaked the track. Funny Cide broke well and took an early lead, but he struggled to maintain his pace. As the race progressed, Empire Maker, who had skipped the Preakness, closed in and eventually pulled ahead. Funny Cide finished third, his Triple Crown dreams dashed.
Reflections on the Quest
Although Funny Cide fell short of winning the Triple Crown, his journey captivated the nation. His performances in the Derby and Preakness showcased his talent and determination, and his near-miss in the Belmont only added to his legacy. Trainer Barclay Tagg and the Sackatoga Stable team remained proud of their horse, acknowledging the challenges he faced and the excitement he brought to the sport.
Funny Cide's Triple Crown quest remains a memorable chapter in horse racing history. His story is a testament to the spirit of competition and the enduring allure of the Triple Crown.
