It's been more than 30 years since a horse last won the Triple Crown of Thoroughbread Racing. In 2012, I'll Have Another came close, dropping out of the third race due to an injury. Could this year be different?

Already, there's controversy in the horse's bid for the Triple Crown. California Chrome uses nasal strips to help him breathe. Now, New York racing offcials are saying the horse cannot wear the strips during the Belmont Stakes on June 7.

"This guy Perry Martin [co-owner of Californa Chrome], he might not run if they say you can't run with a nasal strip. He's very funny about things like that," said trainer Art Sherman, a day after his horse followed up his Kentucky Derby win with a victory in the Preakness.

"The horse has been on a six [race] winning streak with a nasal strip. I don't know why they would ban you from wearing one. But we'll have to cross that bridge when we get there I guess."

For now, there hasn't been a decision about the nasal strips, but how hard will it be for California Chrome to win the race if he is not allowed to wear them?

First, there's at least 10 other horses looking to prevent California Chrome's Triple Crown achievement. Of these 10 horses, Danza, Wicked Strong, Tonalist and Commanding Curve all have a great chance to best California Chrome.

Commanding Curve, Danza and Wicked Strong all skipped the Preakness Stakes Saturday, meaning they'll be fresh in the Belmont. They were right behind California Chrome at the Kentucky Derby (Commanding Curve second, Danza third and Wicked Strong fourth).

Next, there's California Chrome's experience. He's won six races in a row and his jockey Victor Espinoza has plenty of experience riding winning horses.

Espinoza is confident that California Chrome can do it.

"You know what?" Espinoza said, "we'll get it done."

No horse has won the Triple Crown in 36 years. There's so many variables and mishaps that could occur during the race. Chrome could lose by as little as a nose or by as much as eight horselengths.

The Belmont Stakes will run June 7 in Elmont, New York.