The Triple Crown is the pinnacle of the American Horse Race awarded to a three-year-old thoroughbred who won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes in one season. Exploring the history and traditions of this legendary series reveals fascinating details that go beyond the race itself. Below are three things I learned about the Triple Crown Series, which ended in 2025 at the Belmont Stakes last Saturday.
Pass to the Triple Crown
One important thing I’ve learned is that each triple crown race qualification is an important achievement in itself. In the Kentucky Derby, the horse must score points appropriately for a set of designated prep races. Preakness Stakes hosts a small field of up to 14 horses, but typically includes top derby finishers and other high-performance 3-year-olds, with decisions determined by gradual stock earnings and nominations. The Belmont Stakes, the final leg, are open to three-year-olds who have been appointed and paid admission, preferring horses that work well in Derby and Preakness. The unique qualification process for each race ensures that only the best and most consistent young thoroughbreds will win a shot with the triple crown.
Philly has its own honorable race
Another discovery was that the Triple Crown is open to both the Colts and Philly (young female horses), but there is also a series that is only for three-year-old fillies. Each triple crown race will feature the Kentucky Oaks in Churchill Downs, the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes in Pimlico, and the Acorn Betting in New York (though it was held at the Saratoga Race Course this year, it usually takes place at Belmont Park). These races are very authoritative in their own right. Only a handful of fillies who managed to win the triple crown race against the Colts made their victory particularly historic.
Crown Plan after Triple
After a triple crown race, the horse usually follows one of several passes, depending on performance, health and future goals. Top finishers often extend their race season to July and August, competing in famous events such as the Haskell Stakes, The Travers Stakes and Pacific Classic stakes. These races serve as important stepping stones on your path to ultimate goal. This year, we will be competing and qualifying for the Breeders’ Cup, which will be held on October 31st and November. 1 at Del Mar, California.
Alternatively, some horses will retire to Stud, especially if they work well or have strong pedigrees. This allows you to order a high fee for breeding. Not all horses handle the intense triple crown circuits well, so rest and recovery are often the priority. Owners and trainers will consider each horse’s condition and long-term potential before making a decision. For some, successful careers after the Triple Crown solidify their legacy. For others, the next chapter may be a quiet retirement in the pasture, or a new role in dressage and treatment work. Ultimately, the post-triple crown path of horses is a careful balance of economics, health and legacy.– Olivia Sylvester
