Preparations are underway for the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes. This year, it’s being held at Laurel Park while reconstruction takes place at Pimlico.
Traditions Continue at New Location
Despite the location change, Preakness traditions will continue. The Alibi Breakfast will be held at Laurel on the Thursday before the race. Black-eyed Susan Day follows on Friday, and then Preakness Saturday.
Unprecedented Interest in This Year’s Race
Organisers are anticipating an intimate event on a grand scale. Mike Rogers, the executive vice president for 1/ST Racing, notes the high level of interest. “I don’t think I’ve seen this level of interest. We already have 12 horses that are publicly stated that they are aiming for the Preakness, and I can tell you we’ve not seen that before,” Rogers said.
Taj Mahal is one of the potential contenders. Local trainer Brittney Russell also features, with Rogers noting: “She’s the first female leading trainer here in Maryland. Her husband is the jockey.”
Rogers describes the energy around this year’s race as electric. “I don’t know what to attribute it to yet, but it’s been phenomenal. Even the undercard races, we already have trainers committed to bringing a stable of horses,” Rogers said.
Limited Spectator Capacity at Laurel Park
Laurel Park has nearly twice the acreage and almost three times the barn space as Pimlico. However, spectator capacity is limited to about 30% of what Pimlico could host. The infield isn’t available for spectators.
“There’s an infield, but unfortunately, it’s full of water,” Rogers said. “It’s got a pond and lowlands, so we can’t have that infield fest,” Rogers said.
Viewing will be from the grandstands, which are indoors. The turf side terrace tent has been erected. There are dining and bar options inside, including the terrace dining, Turfside Terrace, luxury suites, The Stone Bar, and Tips Tycoons.
- Both Black-eyed Susan Day and the Preakness are sold out.
- Tickets were capped at 4,800 each day.
Transition to Maryland Jockey Club
Rogers said it’s particularly special as 1/ST Racing gets ready to hand over the race to the state and newly formed Maryland Jockey Club. “It’s like handing the baton off to someone else, and to be part of that legacy has been a real thrill and an honor for me,” Rogers said.
Mother’s Day at the Races
Mother’s Day at the Races at Pimlico is always a huge event. This year, it will be held at Laurel on Sunday, May 10. Tickets are still available for that event.