Aqueduct's Cox: Belmont Stakes Picks That Will Transcend Time and Become Legendary

Yulia Chive

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11-01-2025

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Aqueduct's Cox: Belmont Stakes Picks That Will Transcend Time and Become Legendary

The Belmont Stakes. The "Test of the Champion." A grueling 1 1/2 miles that separates the contenders from the truly great. For decades, Aqueduct's legendary handicapper, Steve Cox, has offered insights into this prestigious race, providing picks that have etched themselves into racing lore. While we can't predict the future with certainty, let's delve into the spirit of Cox's approach and explore some timeless strategies for selecting Belmont Stakes winners. Cox himself, unfortunately, is not available for comment, but his legacy continues to inspire.

The Cox Philosophy: Beyond the Numbers

Steve Cox's success wasn't merely about crunching numbers. He understood the nuances of horse racing, recognizing that a horse's pedigree, training regimen, and even its temperament played crucial roles in its performance on the track. He wasn't afraid to look beyond the obvious stats, seeking out the hidden gems and potential upsets.

Key Elements of a Cox-Style Belmont Pick:

• Stamina Above All: The Belmont Stakes demands exceptional stamina. Cox meticulously analyzed a horse's racing history, looking for evidence of consistent late-race power and the ability to handle extended distances. He favored horses with proven staying power, often prioritizing those with successful performances in longer races leading up to the Belmont.

• Pedigree Power: A horse's lineage held immense significance for Cox. He scrutinized pedigrees for evidence of ancestors who excelled at longer distances, seeking out bloodlines known for their stamina and resilience. This wasn't just about looking at the immediate parents, but often delving into several generations back.

• Trainer's Prowess: The trainer's experience and success rate in the Belmont Stakes were crucial considerations for Cox. He understood that a skilled trainer could bring out the best in a horse, especially over such a demanding distance. Experience in handling horses at this level was paramount.

• Post Position Awareness: While not the sole deciding factor, Cox understood the strategic implications of post position. He recognized that a favorable starting position could give a horse an advantage in a race as long and potentially congested as the Belmont. He considered this element carefully, particularly in relation to a horse's running style.

• Pace Scenarios: Understanding the anticipated pace of the race was vital for Cox's approach. He would analyze the other horses in the field, considering their running styles and tendencies to determine whether a front-running or closing strategy would be most effective for his chosen horse.

Legendary Belmont Stakes Moments (Inspired by Cox's Approach):

While we cannot definitively attribute specific wins to Cox's direct picks, several Belmont winners exemplify the qualities he valued:

• Secretariat (1973): The legendary Secretariat possessed unparalleled stamina, a remarkable pedigree, and a dominant running style, perfectly embodying the Cox philosophy.

• American Pharoah (2015): American Pharoah demonstrated exceptional stamina and a powerful closing kick, a key element in Cox's approach to selecting Belmont contenders.

• Citation (1948): Citation's lineage and proven ability to handle distance highlight the importance of pedigree in Cox's selection process.

Applying the Cox Methodology Today:

While Steve Cox’s specific methods might remain a mystery to many, his legacy provides a framework for evaluating Belmont Stakes contenders. By focusing on stamina, pedigree, trainer expertise, post position, and pace scenarios, we can honor his approach and attempt to select potential winners. Remember, horse racing is inherently unpredictable, but by understanding these principles, we can improve our chances of picking a winner and potentially creating our own legendary Belmont Stakes moment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional gambling advice. Horse racing involves risk, and it's crucial to gamble responsibly.