Mexican jockey Victor Espinoza finally secured the biggest achievement for a jockey as he rode American Pharaoh to victory at the Belmont Stakes on Saturday to complete the elusive Triple Crown.

Espinoza became the first Latino to win the Triple Crown after leading American Pharaoh to impressive victories at the Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes this year, but it was not an easy ride at first on Saturday.

American Pharaoh, a heavy favorite heading into the race, started out slow out of the gate, but recovered quickly to end the 37-year wait for a Triple Crown winner. Affirmed was the last horse to win all three major races.

Espinoza admitted that he struggled early in the race, but he was confident he can lead his horse to victory after the first turn as he is already aware of the mistakes that he did before.

Espinoza almost captured the Triple Crown last year when California Chrome won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. However, Espinoza and California Chrome finished just fourth at the Belmont Stakes. It was the same thing that happened in 2002, when War Emblem ruled Kentucky Derby and Preakness before losing at the Belmont Stakes.

"I didn't want to take too much hold. I had to manage it and time it just right. No way was I going to let him run. I had to be patient," Espinoza said via New York Times. "Whatever I do, I don't want to make any mistakes. This is it. I'm going to show what I learned in my career and here."

The patience worked into his favor as American Pharaoh comfortably won the race as it went ahead of the pack near the finish line with Espinoza raising his fist after finally winning the Triple Crown after previous disappointments.

"It's so hard to win this race," said the 43-year-old Espinoza, who started his career the Mexico City's Hippodromo before trying his luck in the United States. "After last year, if the right horse comes long, it will happen. That's why it's so unique and special. You have to have a special horse to win this race."

Following the victory, Espinoza also announced that he will donate his prize to City of Hope charity, which focuses on helping people battling cancer.

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