2024 Preakness Stakes date and time: When is the race, how to ...
See start time, TV coverage, weather and more for the 2024 running of the Preakness Stakes.
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2024 Preakness Stakes: Analyzing the horses in the field including ...
Immediately following Mystik Dan's win in Kentucky Derby 150, trainer Ken McPeek said he wasn't sure he'd send the colt to run in the Preakness.
Read more at The New York Times
Preakness - 10 things to know with detail
The Preakness Stakes is the second jewel of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes. It is held annually on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.
The Preakness Stakes was first run in 1873, making it one of the oldest horse races in the United States. It was named after a colt named Preakness, who won the Dinner Party Stakes, the race that eventually became the Preakness Stakes.
The race is run at a distance of 1 3/16 miles, or about 9.5 furlongs, on dirt. It is open to three-year-old Thoroughbreds and has a purse of $1.5 million, making it one of the most prestigious races in the country.
The Preakness is known for its festive atmosphere, with attendees often dressing in their best attire and enjoying a day of horse racing, food, and entertainment. The race is also famous for its InfieldFest, a concert held in the infield of the racetrack.
The Preakness has had its share of memorable moments and historic victories. Some of the most famous winners include Secretariat, who won in 1973 and set a track record that still stands today, and American Pharoah, who won in 2015 and went on to become the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years.
The Black-Eyed Susan is the traditional drink of the Preakness Stakes, made with vodka, orange juice, and sour mix, topped with a splash of cranberry juice. It is served in a souvenir glass and is a popular choice among racegoers.
The Preakness is also known for its iconic blanket of black-eyed Susans, the official flower of the race. Due to the timing of the race in May, the flowers are actually painted yellow to resemble black-eyed Susans since they are not in bloom yet.
The Preakness has a long-standing tradition of playing the song "Maryland, My Maryland" before the race. The song, written in 1861, is the official state song of Maryland and is played to honor the state's history and heritage.
The Preakness is part of Maryland's week-long Preakness Celebration, which includes events such as the Preakness Balloon Festival, the Preakness Parade, and the Preakness 5K. These events help to build excitement leading up to the big race.
The winner of the Preakness Stakes is awarded the Woodlawn Vase, a prestigious trophy made of sterling silver that is valued at over $1 million. The trophy is one of the most valuable in sports and is considered a symbol of excellence in horse racing.