Success on the track has put the spotlight on horse trainer Jena Antonucci over the last year.

“The horse part, we always say is the easy part. It's the everything else,” said Antonucci, who trained the 2023 Belmont Stakes winner Arcangelo. “It’s been an honor to be able to talk about our sport and horses, the back side, everything that we do, and what the horses bring to all of our lives, and past the gates of just the racetrack.”

Since becoming the first female trainer to ever win a Triple Crown race, Antonucci has used the extra attention to help grow the sport and inspire others.

“The main messaging I think for anyone is there's not a shortcut in success, and working hard, no matter what your gender is, is the most important part,” she said. “Do it the right way, treat the people around you the right way.”

A year later, Antonucci continues to operate pretty much the same with a hands-on approach and some upgrades. While there is no Belmont Stakes contender for her this year, she does have about two dozen thoroughbreds at Saratoga, with a couple 2-year-olds gearing up to race this summer.

“Horses always settle in so lovely up here,” Antonucci said. “It's just the atmosphere, the air, the energy. So it’s exciting to be back and be back early.”

As Antonucci continues to work at the Spa, Arcangelo, who would also go on to win the Travers Stakes, has begun his stallion career at Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky. The thoroughbred retired after a foot injury while training for the Breeder’s Cup. Arcangelo later won the Eclipse Award for 3-year-old male.

“He's transitioned great [and] has lots of mamas and foals. So we're very excited about seeing those guys hit the ground next year and what that next chapter will be for him and his legacy,” said Antonucci, who was just the second female trainer to win the Traver’s Stakes.

Arcangelo, Antonucci, and jockey Javier Castellano will all be honored at this year’s Belmont Gala at the Canfield Casino for their success in 2023. It’s another spotlight and more attention for the test of champion winners, but something they’re grateful for.

“Looking forward to being there and, Javier being there as well. And to celebrate what an amazing accomplishment. And Javier's first Belmont win, ours. So a lot of amazing things for sure,” Antonucci said.