Belmont Stakes 2014 Weather: Latest on Conditions for 146th Race at Elmont

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All eyes are on the 2014 Belmont Stakes as California Chrome goes for the Triple Crown, but many fans have turned their focus to the weather and if Mother Nature will play a role in the outcome of this race.

According to Weather.com, the forecast calls for a sunny day with zero chance of rain for Saturday’s race at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York. The horse racing gods are smiling down on California Chrome.

Here are the latest weather updates and a preview of the 2014 Belmont Stakes.

Breaking Down the 2014 Belmont Stakes

There is always a concern that the weather could play a factor in an outdoor event like the third leg of the Triple Crown, but the latest reports claim that the horses will have a clean run without the interruption of rain.

While there was some rain during the week leading up to the race, the lack of serious accumulations of precipitation will leave the dirt on Belmont Park’s 1.5 mile course dry and easy to maneuver for the contenders.

That should be enough to give California Chrome the confidence he needs to run well.

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In a report from Alex Sosnowski of AccuWeather.com, the belief from meteorologists is that there is no chance of rain on Saturday. With mostly sunny conditions called for and an expected temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, this will be the hottest leg of the Triple Crown.

The thermometer may have a higher reading in Elmont on race day, but the overall weather conditions will be very similar to those at both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.

Horse racing insider Pat Cummings describes his view of the forecast:

There is no doubt that the tough field of challengers will push California Chrome to his limit, but the horse has too much raw talent to struggle at Belmont. Add in the fact that the horse drew the No. 2 post position and the stars are aligning for the Triple Crown hopeful.

Led by veteran trainer Art Sherman and talented jockey Victor Espinoza, California Chrome will have the right mindset heading into the race and will be focused on running to another victory.

While Chrome’s stamina hasn't been tested on a course as long as Belmont, his speed and raw strength are unparalleled and should be able to lead him to victory.

Not only did California Chrome win the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, but the horse has now won six races in a row and is red hot heading into the most important race of his life.

With momentum on his side, horse racing fans should expect California Chrome to cement his place in history by winning the 2014 Belmont Stakes and becoming the first Triple Crown champion since Affirmed in 1978.

Even if you don’t like horse racing, sports fans will want to witness history on Saturday.

Predicted Winner: California Chrome

*Stats via HorseRacingNation.com.

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