Fansided

Why isn’t Cloud Computing in the 2017 Belmont Stakes?

By Cody Williams

May 20, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Javier Castellano aboard Cloud Computing (2) races Julien R. Leparoux aboard Classic Empire (5) during the 142nd running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Javier Castellano aboard Cloud Computing (2) races Julien R. Leparoux aboard Classic Empire (5) during the 142nd running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Following his longshot win at the Preakness Stakes, Cloud Computing isn’t running at the 2017 Belmont Stakes, but why is that the case?

Cloud Computing was not on the radar of many people coming into the Preakness Stakes. He opened at a 30-1 underdog. And though his odds drastically improved leading up to post time to 13-1, he was still considered a longshot. Yet, he came out of nowhere and was able to overtake Classic Empire on the final stretch to win at Pimlico Race Course.

However, the win for Cloud Computing eliminated the chance of a Triple Crown winner in 2017. Thus, the Belmont Stakes didn’t hold the same meaning for him or for Derby winner Always Dreaming. As such, both Always Dreaming and Cloud Computing won’t be running on Saturday in the 2017 Belmont Stakes.

But not running solely because there’s no shot at the Triple Crown seems a bit petty. Is that the whole reason as to why Cloud Computing isn’t running at the 2017 Belmont Stakes? The short answer is, of course, no.

Though many people only pay attention to horse racing during the Triple Crown races, it’s actually quite a long season. There are numerous races with big purses for the winner throughout the summer. Thus, a lot of trainers and owners are interested in seeing their horses do well in those races to complete the season.

What’s more, the Belmont Stakes is a notoriously grueling race. We’ve seen former Triple Crown hopefuls win the Derby and Preakness only to come up short at the Belmont because of the length of the race.

Next: Each State's Sports Mt Rushmore

Thus, with the prestige of the Triple Crown not on the line, it makes sense that Cloud Computing’s team would rather focus on the summer and not such a long race. It’s unfortunate and takes away some of the drama, but it makes sense in the long run.

Home/Belmont Stakes