Triple Crown 2019: Schedule for Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes
By Zoe West
The Kentucky Derby is upon us, but the Triple Crown is only getting started. Here’s what to expect for the entirety of it.
In 2018 horse racing fans had the chance to watch one of the rarest feats in sports, as Justify swept the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness, and the Belmont Stakes to become just the 13th Triple Crown winner in history. For reference, the first was Sir Barton, exactly 100 years ago (1919.) Fans this decade (or half-decade) have been kind of spoiled, because just a few years before that American Pharoah had won as well. But before he broke through in 2015 there had been a 37 year Triple Crown drought. In fact, by the time American Pharoah won, all of the other winners had died of old age.
Will someone make it two in a row this year? It’s possible. Right now there are 20 chances for that to happen, by Saturday evening there will only be one. Here’s a look at the full schedule for the 2019 Triple Crown.
- Kentucky Derby
Saturday, May 4
Post time: 6:50pm ET
- Preakness Stakes
Saturday, May 18
Post time: 6:20pm ET
- Belmont Stakes
Saturday, June 8
Post time 6:30pm ET
The final field, and morning line odds for the Preakness will be announced on Wednesday May 15, and the Belmont on Tuesday June 4.
Coverage for all three races will begin on NBCSN for the pre-race festivities, then shift to the main channel for coverage if the actual races. For the Derby NBCSN will start at noon eastern, and shift to the main channel at 2:30, remaining there throughout the race. All three will also be streamed online via NBC Sports Live Extra or the NBC Sports app.
Of course things can change, especially with horses. Just a few days ago the presumed Derby field had to be thrown out the window when favorite Omaha Beach was pulled from the race with an entrapped epiglottis (essentially a breathing obstruction.) His absence gives the rest of the field a greater chance to chase glory in the Kentucky Derby, and in the Triple Crown.