Belmont Stakes: Season 2022, Episode 1

2022 - 1: 154th Belmont Stakes

Rich Strike headlines the field in his first race since becoming the second-biggest longshot to win the "Run for the Roses." A pair of Todd Pletcher-trained horses — Kentucky Derby fifth-place finisher and Wood Memorial (G2) winner Mo Donegal, and Kentucky Oaks runner-up Nest — as well as Preakness Stakes third-place finisher Creative Minister and Peter Pan Stakes (G3) winner We the People are also expected to highlight the field of eight horses. The Belmont Stakes is referred to as the "Test of the Champion" for its 1.5-mile distance, the longest of the three Triple Crown races.Long-time NBC Sports horse racing host Tom Hammond narrates an essay about the storied history of the Belmont Stakes on NBC.Features on the connections of Rich Strike including trainer Eric Reed, jockey Sonny Leon and groom Jerry Dixon, Jr.Meet the Belmont Stakes contenders.In addition, musician DJ Pauly D will perform in the Belmont Park grandstand and give the ‘Riders Up' command during the broadcast.COMMENTATORS: NBC Sports' coverage of the Belmont Stakes features host Mike Tirico; analysts Randy Moss and Jerry Bailey, the Hall of Fame jockey and two-time Belmont Stakes winner; host Ahmed Fareed; handicapper Matt Bernier; reporters Britney Eurton and Kenny Rice; and race caller Larry Collmus.