Key Details: What Time Is The Preakness?
The thunderous roar of the crowd, the pounding of hooves, and the sheer adrenaline of the race – few sporting events capture the spirit of competition and tradition quite like the Preakness Stakes. As the second jewel in horse racing’s coveted Triple Crown, the Preakness holds a special place in the hearts of racing fans. It’s a race steeped in history, filled with drama, and always delivers unforgettable moments. If you’re eager to witness this spectacle and join in the excitement, you’re probably wondering, “What time is the Preakness?” This guide is your go-to resource for everything you need to know about the Preakness, ensuring you don’t miss a single second of the action. We’ll cover the exact time, how to watch it, and delve into the fascinating traditions that make this race so unique.
So, you want to know what time is the Preakness? Let’s get straight to the point. The Preakness Stakes is scheduled for Saturday, May eighteenth, with an approximate post time of six fifty PM Eastern Time. It’s crucial to note that this time is approximate and subject to change, so it’s always wise to double-check closer to the race day. Make sure to mark your calendars and set your reminders, because you won’t want to miss the thrill of the Preakness Stakes!
When is the Preakness Stakes?
This question is often asked, and the answer is always the third Saturday in May. Pimlico Race Course, the historic home of the Preakness, will be buzzing with activity throughout the day, leading up to the main event. The entire day is a celebration of horse racing, with multiple races and events happening before the Preakness itself. So, while the Preakness race is the highlight, there’s plenty to enjoy beforehand.
How to Watch the Preakness Stakes
Once you know what time is the Preakness, the next crucial question is: how can you watch it? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to catch all the action, whether you’re at home, on the go, or even across the globe.
For those who prefer the traditional viewing experience, television coverage is your best bet. NBC is typically the network that broadcasts the Preakness Stakes, offering comprehensive coverage of the entire event. Their broadcast usually starts several hours before the Preakness itself, showcasing pre-race analysis, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of horse racing. Check your local listings for the exact schedule.
If you prefer streaming, you’re in luck. NBC’s streaming service, Peacock, usually offers a live stream of the Preakness Stakes, allowing you to watch the race on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. This is a great option for those who are traveling or don’t have access to a television. Other streaming services might also carry the race, so be sure to check your preferred platforms closer to the date.
For those who prefer the classic experience, radio coverage provides another way to follow the Preakness. Check your local sports radio stations for broadcast information. Listening to the race on the radio can be particularly exciting, as the announcers paint a vivid picture of the action as it unfolds.
For viewers outside of the United States, accessing the Preakness can be a bit trickier. Check your local sports networks or streaming services to see if they offer coverage of the race. Some international sports networks may acquire the rights to broadcast the Preakness. If not, you might be able to access the NBC stream through a VPN, but be sure to check the terms and conditions of both the streaming service and your VPN provider.
Preakness Stakes Day Schedule and Key Races
The Preakness Stakes is the grand finale of a full day of thrilling racing at Pimlico. Arriving early allows you to soak in the atmosphere and witness several other prestigious races before the main event. These races showcase talented horses and jockeys, adding to the overall excitement of the day.
Several stakes races typically precede the Preakness, including the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes for fillies, named after the official flower of Maryland and the Preakness. Other notable races often include the Dinner Party Stakes, the Chick Lang Stakes, and several other graded stakes races that attract top-tier talent. While the exact schedule varies each year, these races provide a captivating preview of the excitement to come. You can usually find the detailed race schedule on the Preakness Stakes official website a few weeks before the event.
Beyond the races, Preakness Day is filled with entertainment and activities. Pimlico Race Course transforms into a vibrant hub with music, food, and fashion. Many attendees dress in their finest attire, adding to the festive atmosphere. It’s a true celebration of Maryland culture and tradition.
A Brief History of the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes boasts a rich history dating back to eighteen seventy-three, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious horse races in the United States. Named after the colt Preakness, who won the Dinner Party Stakes on opening day at Pimlico in eighteen seventy, the race quickly gained popularity and became a cornerstone of American horse racing.
Over the years, the Preakness has witnessed countless legendary moments. From the early days of racing icons to the modern era of Triple Crown contenders, the Preakness has consistently showcased the best horses in the nation.
Some of the most famous winners of the Preakness include Secretariat, who won in nineteen seventy-three as part of his Triple Crown sweep; Affirmed, who edged out Alydar in nineteen seventy-eight; and American Pharoah, who ended a thirty-seven-year Triple Crown drought in twenty fifteen. These horses, along with many others, have etched their names into the annals of Preakness history.
Did you know that the Preakness trophy, officially known as the Woodlawn Vase, is one of the most valuable trophies in sports? It’s only awarded to the winner temporarily, as the connections receive a replica to keep. This tradition adds to the prestige and allure of the Preakness Stakes.
Understanding Betting on the Preakness
For many, betting adds an extra layer of excitement to the Preakness experience. Understanding the basics of horse racing wagers can help you make informed decisions and potentially win big. Some of the most common types of bets include:
Win: Your horse must finish first to win.
Place: Your horse must finish first or second to win.
Show: Your horse must finish first, second, or third to win.
Exacta: You must correctly pick the first and second-place finishers in the correct order.
Trifecta: You must correctly pick the first, second, and third-place finishers in the correct order.
Superfecta: You must correctly pick the first, second, third, and fourth-place finishers in the correct order.
Remember to always gamble responsibly. Set a budget before you start betting and stick to it. Don’t chase your losses, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Resources are available for those who need help with problem gambling. Have fun and enjoy the race responsibly.
Preakness Traditions and Culture
The Preakness Stakes is more than just a horse race; it’s a cultural event filled with unique traditions that make it special. Two of the most iconic traditions are the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail and the painting of the winner’s silks.
The Black-Eyed Susan is the official drink of the Preakness, a refreshing blend of vodka, bourbon, pineapple juice, orange juice, and sweet and sour mix. Sipping on a Black-Eyed Susan while watching the race is a quintessential Preakness experience.
Another beloved tradition is the painting of the winner’s silks on the weather vane atop the old Clubhouse at Pimlico. Immediately after the race, a painter climbs atop the weather vane and applies the colors of the winning owner’s silks. This colorful display serves as a lasting reminder of the victory and a symbol of Preakness tradition.
The InfieldFest is another major component of the Preakness experience, a lively concert and party held in the infield of the race track. Attracting thousands of fans, the InfieldFest features live music, food vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere. This festive celebration adds another layer of excitement to the Preakness Stakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Preakness start? The Preakness Stakes is scheduled for May eighteenth, with an approximate post time of six fifty PM Eastern Time.
Where can I watch the Preakness Stakes? You can watch the Preakness on NBC, via streaming on Peacock, or listen to radio coverage on local sports radio stations.
What is the Black-Eyed Susan? The Black-Eyed Susan is the official drink of the Preakness Stakes, a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, bourbon, pineapple juice, orange juice, and sweet and sour mix.
Who are the horses running in the Preakness? The list of horses running in the Preakness will be finalized closer to the race date. Check the official Preakness Stakes website for the latest information.
Conclusion
The Preakness Stakes is a truly special event, a combination of thrilling horse racing, rich history, and vibrant culture. Now that you know what time is the Preakness, you’re well-prepared to witness this incredible spectacle. Whether you’re watching on television, streaming online, or attending the race in person, be sure to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the excitement. From the thunderous roar of the crowd to the beauty of the horses, the Preakness is an experience you won’t soon forget. Make sure to get ready to watch the Preakness at six fifty PM Eastern time on May eighteenth, and tune in to what promises to be one of the most exciting horse races of the year.
