In a most unfortunate turn for not only the 2012 Belmont Stakes but for horse racing enthusiasts everywhere, I'll Have Another has been officially scratched from the race. Not only will he not go after the 2012 Triple Crown but he's likely finished with his racing career.

"If I had to wager....I would say yes." Doug O'Neill on if "I'll Have Another" has run its last race. @dpshow

— Paulie Pabst (@PaulPabst) June 8, 2012

The winner of the Kentucky Derby and Preakness had to bow out from competing in the Belmont Stakes, which means Affirmed will remain enshrined in glory for yet another year as the last horse to accomplish the feat of winning all three legs. I'll Have Another's team certainly enjoyed a banner year in racing regardless, but it's a rather sad ending to a year that will remembered more for dashed expectations than anything else.

For lots more on the Belmont Stakes and the Triple Crown, please visit And Down The Stretch They Come.