Every sport has its legends. Horse racing is no exception. There have been horse legends throughout the years that people still remember and talk about. One of the most prestigious feats to accomplish in horse racing is that of a triple crown. There have only been a handful or two that have done it in the sport and a repeat is even rarer. In 1978, there had never been a Triple Crown winner that one back to back. This was the year when horse racing history was written. Affirmed provided a new record set, and went into the history books.

The biggest part about this event was the rivalry between Affirmed and competitor Alydar. They met at first in 1977 during the Youthful Stakes. Affirmed came out the winner, but Alydar followed closely behind and started one of the greatest horse rivalries there has ever been. These 2 year olds slugged it out in almost every other race thereafter.

Earlier in 1978 Affirmed won all four starts that he had in California and it set the stage for the three Triple Crown Races. The first of the three races was initially dominated by Believe It, while Affirmed held back. In the final stretch both Affirmed and Alydar made a push, but Affirmed came out on top.

The next race was just as breathtaking, with Affirmed coming into the race on top but slowly getting pressure from Alydar. Alydar and Affirmed ran neck and neck until the end of the race where Affirmed one with the stretch of his neck. The last race of the Triple Crown happened three later at the Belmont Stakes. This was one of the most defining moments in horse racing history.

After a half mile into the race, the two horses were already running about neck and neck with Affirmed in first place. As they reached the final stretch, Alydar came right up next to Affirmed. Alydar took the initial lead down the stretch but Affirmed had just enough left in him to come out on top yet again. The crowd cheered and Affirmed secured his Triple Crown victory.

Alydar and Affirmed only raced each other one more time and it was at the Travers Stakes in Saratoga. Affirmed won this race as well but was later disqualified for interfering with Alydar earlier in the race. His following performances resulted in two more losses but he still won Horse of the Year for his incredible accomplishments. Affirmed had an incredible run during his career, and every horse trainer is hoping that their mares will compare at some point.