Despite the fact that the hopes of the first Triple Crown Championship since Affirmed accomplished the feat in 1978 went out the window with I'll Have Another's retirement the day before the 2012 Belmont Stakes, it didn't deter racing fans' interest in the event.
In a report filed by the Associated Press, there were a staggering amount of wagers placed on the race; in fact it was a near historic amount.
Via the Wall Street Journal:
A close finish led to the second-largest amount of money wagered, strong attendance and higher television ratings, proving people will still watch the sport on its big days.
In addition, the television ratings pulled a 5.4 overnight righting and a 13 share, which was 13 percent higher than last year's Belmont and a staggering 74 percent better than the 2010 Belmont.
Stick with this storystream from SB Nation Detroit for updates, results and more from the 2012 Belmont Stakes. For full-time horse racing news and analysis, head over to SB Nation horse racing blog And Down The Stretch They Come.