Belmont Stakes 2012: I'll Have Another's Absence Won't Hurt Quality of Race

I'll Have Another is the biggest star in the horse-racing world right now. His absence at the Belmont Stakes will be felt, no one can deny that. However, to completely dismiss the race itself would be foolish. 

Everyone knows that history was at stake with I'll Have Another, who was trying to become the first Triple Crown winner since 1978. That was the biggest hook to draw in mainstream fans. 

While a lot of those mainstream fans may not find the space in their busy schedule to tune in to the two-and-a-half minutes it takes to run the Belmont Stakes, I would implore those people to make time for this race. 

Yes, the history is gone, but you have plenty of intriguing horses that make this race worth watching. There is a field of 11 horses, all of whom have no idea what is going on with I'll Have Another, who are going to be ready to give their all in this atmosphere. 

If you are looking for an epic race with a great finish, I can't promise you that. No one can, which is part of the allure of sports. 

What you can be assured of is that all these horses have built up such strong racing resumes that to undersell the Belmont Stakes and what this race will become. 

Horses like Dullahan, Union Rags and Paynter all have the kind of charm and charisma that fans can get behind in a singular race. In the case of Union Rags and Dullahan, everyone already knows who they are from the Kentucky Derby. 

Other horses, like Street Life, have flown under the radar simply because they did not run in one of the big races that casual fans pay attention. He is not a great horse, though he does seem to have figured out a style that works in these races. 

With history out of the equation, all we can ask for is a well-run, competitive race between the best 11 horses the Belmont has to offer. Even without I'll Have Another, there is no reason to think that is going to suffer. 

Make a point to sit in front of the television to see what these thoroughbreds are able to do. Appreciate what they are able to do for the two-and-a-half minutes they have to show the world what they are capable of. 

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