Belmont Stakes 2012 Contenders: Dullahan

Horse: Dullahan
Trainer: Dale Romans
Pedigree: By Even the Score out of a Smart Strike mare (Mining My Own)
Career Record: 9-2-2-2
Career Earnings: $1,072,091
Notable Races: G1-Kentucky Derby (3^rd); G1-Blue Grass Stakes (1^st); G3-Palm Beach (2^nd); G1-Breeders' Cup Juvenile (4^th); G2-With Anticipation ( 3^rd)

Can He Win The Belmont Stakes?

After closing well from far back to finish 3rd in the Kentucky Derby, Dullahan is a strong choice by many to play the role of spoiler to I'll Have Another in the Belmont. He didn't run in the Preakness, which should leave him very fresh for this race, and his running style suggests that the added ground shouldn't be much of a problem. There is, however, is a factor that could throw a wrench in the Dullahan party, and that's pace.

While Dullahan was visually impressive at the end of the Derby, sometimes the finishing kick of a closer can be a little deceptive due to how slow the horses in front of him are running. The early pace of the Derby was very fast and, as a result, the horses near the front were easy pickings for a deep closer like Dullahan. The pace of the Belmont won't be anywhere near as fast as the Derby, which might make it a little more difficult for Dullahan to make up large amounts of ground in the final furlongs.

Dullahan is the second choice on the morning line at odds of 5/1, and he will likely attract a lot of attention from players looking to try and beat I'll Have Another at the windows.