Belmont Stakes 2012: Horses Who Will Affect the Race in Losing Efforts

While everyone focuses on the contenders going into the Belmont Stakes, the long shots can have as much of an effect on the final outcome.

These horses might not be the first through the finish line, but each of them will play an important role in the final leg of the Triple Crown.

Unstoppable U

Despite winning both of his career races, Unstoppable U comes in as a 20-1 long shot. It makes sense, as his lack of experience will hurt his chances of staying in front of the pack for such a long race.

Even if the horse cannot maintain his pace throughout, there is no denying Unstoppable U's speed. He should get out to the early lead keep the overall pace of the pack faster than usual.

The contenders need to make sure they do not go too fast too early and tire themselves out before the final stretch.

Atigun

The other horse trained by Kenneth McPeek will also be very important in the beginning of the race. Starting at the No. 4 post, Atigun is one spot outside of contender Union Rags.

Union Rags was a popular pick at the Kentucky Derby, but was bumped early by Dullahan, the horse directly outside of him at the start. A similar problem occurred at the Florida Derby.

Owner Phyllis Wyeth expressed her concern to Sports Illustrated, "Obviously we've been a little disappointed. We feel that Union Rags hasn't been able to really run his race. We think he can do the mile and a half. He's training really, really well."

Hopefully, new jockey John Velazquez will be able to avoid Atigun early on and run the race the horse is capable of having.

Street Life

Since 1905, 10 more winners have come from the No. 1 post than any other spot at Belmont, a total of 23. Street Life drew that fortunate spot, and that alone makes him one of the contenders.

However, Street Life has not shown he has what it takes to close late, especially on a longer track. He competed at the same Belmont track last month and only took third in a much shorter race.

The horse could be around the front of the pack towards the end, but he will be one of the last ones passed by the eventual winner.