Curlin will leave from the No. 3 post position under Robby Albarado, and will attempt to become the third horse in seven years to capture the Preakness and Belmont. Point Given in 2001 and Afleet Alex in 2005 won two-thirds of the Triple Crown after failing to win the Kentucky Derby.

Hard Spun, second in the Derby and third in the Preakness, was the second choice at 5-2 and took the No. 6 post at Wednesday's post position draw.

Larry Jones, who trains Hard Spun, says Curlin could be something special.

"We may hail him by the fall as a superstar," Jones said of the colt who has won four of five races. But he added, "Hopefully the pace scenario will be a little different going a mile-and-a-half."

Rags to Riches will become the 22nd filly to run in the Belmont and the first since Silverbulletday finished seventh in 1999. The Kentucky Oaks winner will be ridden for the first time by John Velazquez, and drew the No. 7 post for Saturday's 1 1/2-mile race.

Two fillies have won the Belmont — Ruthless took the first running in 1867 and Tanya won in 1905.

Also entered are Imawildandcrazyguy, Tiago, Slew's Tizzy and C P West.