The Preakness Stakes: An American Thoroughbred Tradition
Horse Racing's "Run for the Black-Eyed Susans"
About the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It is held annually on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The race is 1 3/16 miles long and is open to three-year-old thoroughbreds.
The Preakness Stakes is the second jewel in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, which also includes the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes. It is considered to be one of the most challenging races in the world, and it has been won by some of the greatest horses in history.
History of the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes was first run in 1873 and is named after Colonel John Hillen, owner of the racecourse where it was first held. The race was originally called the Dinner Stakes and was open to horses of all ages. In 1875, the name was changed to the Preakness Stakes and the race was restricted to three-year-olds.
The Preakness Stakes has been run every year since its inception except for 1877, when it was not held due to the Great Baltimore Fire. The race has been held at Pimlico Race Course since 1873 with the exception of 1909 when it was held at Laurel Park Racecourse.
Winners of the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes has been won by some of the greatest horses in history, including Man o' War, Seabiscuit, Secretariat, and American Pharoah. The most successful jockey in the history of the race is Eddie Arcaro, who won the race five times.
The Preakness Stakes is a major event in the American sporting calendar and attracts fans from all over the world. It is a race that is rich in history and tradition and is one of the most prestigious races in the world.
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