Each spring, horse racing’s attention turns to Baltimore for the second leg of the Triple Crown. The Preakness Stakes has been tied to Maryland for generations.
What is the Preakness Stakes?
The Preakness is the second jewel of the Triple Crown. It is held three weeks and one day after the Kentucky Derby and two weeks before the Belmont Stakes.
Where is it run?
The race is traditionally run at Pimlico Race Course, a few miles northwest of downtown Baltimore. Pimlico opened in 1870 and is described as America’s second-oldest racetrack, behind Saratoga. Because venues and dates for a given year can change, readers should check the current year’s arrangements before making plans.
When was the first Preakness?
The first Preakness Stakes at Pimlico took place in 1873.
How long is the race?
The Preakness is a Grade I race run over 1 3/16 miles on dirt.
What are the black-eyed Susans?
The Preakness is also known as “the Run for the Black-Eyed Susans.” A blanket of black-eyed Susans, Maryland’s state flower, is draped over the winning horse. Our article on Maryland’s state symbols lists the flower alongside the state bird and other official emblems.
At a glance
| Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Position in the Triple Crown | Second jewel |
| Timing | Three weeks and one day after the Kentucky Derby |
| First run | 1873 |
| Track | Pimlico Race Course (opened 1870) |
| Distance | 1 3/16 miles on dirt |
| Grade | Grade I |
Why it matters to Maryland
The Preakness is one of the state’s best-known sporting events, and it sits alongside other Baltimore sports traditions such as baseball at Camden Yards and football at M&T Bank Stadium.
This article is a general overview based on published accounts. Race dates, venues and tickets change from year to year, so check the official Preakness information.
Sources: Visit Maryland; Visit Baltimore; Wikipedia
