We haven't had a Triple Crown winner since 1978 Affirmed. American Pharaohs father (Pioneer of the Nile) had the derby won leading by 5lengths coming for home only to be noesed at the wire. A few short years later his son whos breeding rights have already been sold for $20,000,000 has a great chance. American Pharaohs going up against a bunch of fresh horses we have seen a few horses pull off the first two races of the Triple Crown and not be able to close the deal at the Belmont.