Union Rags: Belmont Stakes Victory Not the Final Chapter for Colt in 2012

Union Rags isn't ready to be sent to the stud farm just yet. In fact, if you believe trainer Michael Matz, the season is just beginning for the Belmont Stakes-winning colt.

Matz talked to reporters about the rest of the season, via USA Today:

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"It all depends on how we finish the season," said trainer Michael Matz about winning the Eclipse Award as top 3-year-old and Horse of the Year. "Who knows what could go on? We're not throwing in the towel by any means."

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He then said that "the next step for his colt will with the July 29 Haskell at Monmouth Park the July 28 Jim Dandy at Saratoga or the Aug. 25 Travers at Saratoga."

It will be tough for Union Rags to overtake I'll Have Another for these two awards. After all, I'll Have Another won two legs of the Triple Crown to Union Rags' single victory at the Belmont Stakes. That being said, if Union Rags can win two or three other big races to close out the season, he'll have a shot to do it.

After watching Union Rags and jockey John Velasquez execute a winning strategy to perfection at Belmont, I don't see any reason to believe they won't continue to finish out the year on a high note. It would be a fitting end to what has been a strange year in horse racing.

Union Rags is a phenomenal horse. Winning the Belmont Stakes was a huge step for him, Velasquez, Matz and owner Phyllis Mills Wyeth, but there is still much work to be done. A strong finish down the stretch will boost his worth tremendously, and all parties involved will work fervently to ensure they give him the best chance to succeed.

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