The Legendary Race

First run in 1873, the Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the American Triple Crown, held annually on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The race is contested at a distance of 1 3/16 miles (9.5 furlongs) and is open to three-year-old thoroughbreds.

Known as "The Race for the Black-Eyed Susans" after Maryland's state flower, the Preakness Stakes has cemented its place in racing history with spectacular performances and dramatic finishes. The winner receives the coveted Woodlawn Vase, considered the most valuable trophy in American sports.

Distance

1 3/16 miles (9.5 furlongs)

Track Surface

Dirt

Purse

$1.5 million

Record Time

1:53.00 (Secretariat, 1973)

Preakness Stakes Race

Beloved Traditions

Black-Eyed Susan Blanket

Black-Eyed Susan Blanket

The winner of the Preakness Stakes is draped with a blanket of Black-Eyed Susans, Maryland's state flower. Interestingly, since the race is held in May and Black-Eyed Susans don't typically bloom until June, the blanket is actually made with Viking daisies, with the centers painted black to resemble the state flower.

Woodlawn Vase

Woodlawn Vase

Designed by Tiffany and Co. in 1860, the Woodlawn Vase is presented to the Preakness winner and is valued at over $4 million, making it the most valuable trophy in American sports. For safety reasons, winners receive a smaller replica while the original remains on display at the Baltimore Museum of Art.

Maryland Jockey Club Weathervane

Weathervane Ceremony

Following the race, a painter climbs to the top of the replica Old Clubhouse cupola to paint the weather vane with the winning horse's colors and silks. This tradition dates back to 1909 when the original clubhouse cupola was adorned with the winner's colors as an honor.

InfieldFest

InfieldFest

Since 2009, the Preakness has hosted InfieldFest, a music festival featuring top musical acts, beverages, food, and unique entertainment. This annual celebration attracts thousands of visitors and has become a highlight of the Preakness weekend.

Notable Winners

Secretariat

Secretariat (1973)

The legendary Secretariat set a track record at the Preakness that still stands today, completing the 1 3/16 mile course in 1:53.00. His performance at Pimlico was part of his historic Triple Crown win, which he secured two weeks later at the Belmont Stakes.

American Pharoah

American Pharoah (2015)

American Pharoah's victory at the 2015 Preakness Stakes was the second leg of his successful Triple Crown campaign, the first in 37 years. Despite a driving rainstorm that turned the track to mud, he won convincingly, setting the stage for his historic Belmont win.

Justify

Justify (2018)

Just three years after American Pharoah, Justify continued his path to Triple Crown glory with a win at the Preakness. Racing through heavy fog that obscured much of the race from spectators, Justify battled to victory before going on to secure the Triple Crown at Belmont.

Visitor Information

Tickets

Tickets for the Preakness Stakes typically go on sale in October of the previous year. Options range from general admission to premium packages with VIP hospitality. Early purchase is recommended as this event often sells out.

Official Ticket Information

Transportation

Pimlico Race Course is located at 5201 Park Heights Avenue in Baltimore. Multiple transportation options are available including shuttle services from downtown hotels, Light Rail service to nearby stations, and rideshare services.

Hospitality

Clear Bay Resort offers exclusive packages for Preakness weekend, including premium accommodations, transportation to and from the track, and special amenities for racing enthusiasts.

Contact for Package Information