Preakness Stakes in the United States

Date: The Preakness Stakes is traditionally held on the third Saturday in May.

Location: It takes place at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.

History:

• First Run: 1873
• Founder: Maryland Governor Oden Bowie
• Significance: The Preakness Stakes is the second jewel of the Triple Crown of thoroughbred horse racing, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes.
• Name Origin: Named after the colt Preakness who won the Dinner Party Stakes on the day Pimlico opened (October 25, 1870).

Traditions:

• Black-Eyed Susan: The winning horse is draped with a blanket of yellow flowers resembling Maryland's state flower, although actual Black-Eyed Susans are not in season during the race.
• Alibi Breakfast: A media event where trainers, jockeys, and owners provide humorous "alibis" for why their horses might not win.
• InfieldFest: A multi-entertainment festival that includes live music, food, and drinks.

What People Do:

• Attendees often dress up in fancy attire, with women wearing elaborate hats.
• Spectators place bets on their favorite horses.
• Many parties and social gatherings occur around Baltimore in celebration of the event.
• People across the country watch the race broadcast live on television to witness part of horse racing's historic Triple Crown.