Matz hails rags-to-riches Belmont winner

Trainer Michael Matz insisted Union Rags had always possessed star quality after the colt claimed the Belmont Stakes on Saturday night.

Although the race was greatly diminished by the withdrawal of Triple Crown aspirant I’ll Have Another, New York racegoers were still treated to a blockbuster finish.

Union Rags, ridden by John Velazquez, came fast and late in the $1m heat to deny Paynter by a short neck.