The 2012 Belmont Stakes was missing the Triple Crown narrative, as I'll Have Another was officially scratched on Friday morning and proceeded to be retired prior to the race. The winner of this year's Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes was the favorite to win the Belmont, and in turn, complete horse racing's first Triple Crown since 1978.

However; despite I'll Have Another's absence, the Belmont did not lack excitement and/or drama.

The longest of the Triple Crown races – a mile and half – was mostly led by Paynter until the final hundred yards, when Union Rags surpassed him to win the race in a photo finish.

Below is a full video of the race:

SB Nation Philly will have news, updates, and results from the 2012 Belmont Stakes. For full time horse racing news and analysis, head over to And Down The Stretch They Come. And don't miss SB Nation on YouTube.