The Preakness Stakes: Triple Crown Excitement in Baltimore

There are few things that can successfully combine excitement and tradition as well as horseracing can. This sport dates back thousands of years, and has been practiced by the ancient Celts, Romans and Egyptians and possibly dating back even farther than that. With the incredible wealth of history and traditions surrounding this sport, it comes as no surprise that it is held in such high esteem around the globe. The US offers hundreds of horseracing options, but none truly compares to the Triple Crown of the sport. This is made up of three separate races, the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

While the Kentucky Derby is held first, the Preakness Stakes were actually held first. Beginning in 1873, two years before the renowned Kentucky Derby, the Preakness is one of the finest and most historical horse races in the country.

The Early Years

In the beginning of its history, the Preakness Stakes were held in many different places. Begun in Maryland, it was held several times in New York, first in the Bronx, and then on Coney Island. Since 1908, however, the race has been held at its original home, at Pimlico Race Track in Baltimore. The race consists of geldings and fillies, with geldings carrying a load of 126 lbs and fillies carrying 121 lbs. Also known as the "Race for the Black-Eyed Susans" because of the horseshoe shaped wreath of Maryland's state flower, which is traditionally awarded to the race winners.

Today

Today, the Preakness is one of the premier races in the US. Traditionally, the winner of the Kentucky Derby participates in the Preakness in their rounds through the three legs of the American Triple Crown. Often, the winner of the Kentucky Derby is heavily favored to win this race, as well, though that has not always been the case with some spectacular differences.

This race is the shortest leg of the Triple Crown, standing at just 1-3/16 miles in length. The fastest time on the track was actually set in 1985, at 1:53 2/5 seconds. Though the record has never been bettered, it has been equaled twice in the next decades.

Today, the Preakness Stakes stand as a testament to the popularity of horseracing around the globe. Drawing spectators and horses, jockeys and fans from around the globe, it is more than an American race. The Preakness offers international fame and glory for the contestants.

Held yearly on the third Saturday in May, the race draws crowds from around the country and the world. If you plan to visit Baltimore, make sure you visit the area during May to catch this amazing race. It offers history and heritage, combined with adrenaline and excitement. There is no better way to spend an afternoon than watching the track, cheering on your favorite horse. As a note, if you plan to attend the event, you will need to make reservations in advance. Due to the popularity of the race, hotels and other accommodations fill up fast.