Belmont Stakes 2012 Post Positions: Dark-Horse Candidates to Thrive at Belmont

Everyone knows the big names at the Belmont, but there are several dark horses who can shock the world on Saturday. 

While I'll Have Another, Dullahan and Union Rags are the favorites, you can win some big bucks by throwing money down on one of these three long shots.

All betting odds courtesy of FOXSports.com

Five Sixteen

Five Sixteen has had a highly successful 2012, finishing no worse than fourth in his four races this year. He's also claimed one victory already, winning at the Aqueduct track in New York on March 14.

Five Sixteen will also get a boost from starting in Post 7. Seven horses have won the Belmont from that slot since 1979, including three of the last five champions.

At 50-1 odds, Five Sixteen is well worth the gamble.

Atigun

Atigun is an experienced horse, running nine career races. He's won three of those, including two in 2012.

He's also starting in the fourth slot, which has produced four winners in the last 25 years, including Summer Bird in 2009. He's currently facing 30-1 odds, but Atigun could be in contention late at the Belmont.

Optimizer

Optimizer competed in both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, and although he wasn't too successful, that experience will pay off at the Belmont.

After finishing 11th at the Derby, he improved by finishing sixth at the Preakness. I'm expecting another improvement, and possibly a top three finish, from him at the Belmont.

At 20-1 odds, the seasoned Optimizer is an intriguing bet.