The Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park – how it was then and how it is now

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The Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park – how it was then and how it is now
Since its inception in 1968, the Haskell Invitational has been one of the most anticipated events of the year, which is anxiously awaited by many. Hosted at Monmouth Park, covering a distance of 1 1/8 miles, this year some of the best runners will
aim to take home the $ 1 million purse on 29th July, 2012.
This mega-event was initially held for older runners but, the rules changed in 1981 and it was decided that only 3-year-olds will run the race.

This race is now officially sponsored by the Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey since 2011, since it has a five-year partnership with the track.
The first winner of this grand event was Balustrade, trained by Morris H. Dixon for owner Thaddeus R. Trout in 1968. The following year, the race was secured by Al Hattab, who was owned by the Pelican Stable and trained by Warren A. Croll, Jr.
Over the course of time, some incredible records have been set. Two runners share the honour of completing this race in the fastest time. The first one is Majestic Light in 1976 and the second one being, Warren A. Croll, Jr. trained, Bet Twice in 1987.
Both runners completed the event in 1 minute and 47.00 seconds flat.
The Todd Pletcher trained, Bluegrass Cat, has won this race by the largest margin of seven lengths when he defeated, Praying For Cash, in 1 minute and 48.85 seconds.
Pletcher has saddled two winners in this race and this year, he has entered Gemologist, with the hoping of another win.
Hall of Fame trainer, Bob Baffert has the privilege of saddling the most winners. Currently, his record stands at five with Coil in 2011, Lookin at Lucky in 2010, Roman Ruler in 2005, War Emblem in 2002, and Point Given in 2001.
This year the renowned trainer might stretch his record to six winners, provided Paynter, son of Awesome Again secures the victory.   
2008 winner Big Brown, 2009 winner Rachel Alexandra and 2010 winner Lookin at Lucky have all been honored with the Eclipse Award for American Champion Three Year-Old.