Belmont Stakes conqueror Tonalist won the G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont Park to confirm his entry to the Breeders’ Cup Classic. The son of Tapit is trained by Christophe Clement and was ridden by Joel Rosario.

Tonalist was a bit lethargic out of the gates and Joel in no hurry settled his mount in second last early with Big Cazanova calling the shots in front. As the runners began to group up there was a mishap in which Moreno came on to Wicked Strong that resulted in the latter’s rider Rajiv Maragh being dislodged and injured. Zivo who was just behind Wicked Strong had to be checked necessitating Joel also to do the same thing, to avoid going over the fallen jockey. Long River in the meanwhile took the lead mid-way up the straight and was looking to score an upset when Tonalist sliced between the leader and Zivo to forge ahead and draw clear. Zivo and Long River finished second and third respectfully.

"He didn't get out very quick, but I just let him run on his own," said Joel Rosario while describing the race. "When I passed the half-mile, and the [jockey] fell in front of me, it scared me a little bit and I was just trying to get out of the way. After that I tried to save ground. I was hoping to go through on the inside, but [the opening] closed up and I had to go around. He relaxed very nicely. I was probably a little far back, but I wasn't worried about it; I didn't want to make him do something he didn't want to do. I could see turning for home they were coming back to me and he found a way through. I'm happy we got the money. He's a one-paced horse, and when he starts going, he goes forever. I was really happy with the trip."