2009 Preakness Stakes Contenders

Preakness Stakes Horse Racing Odds

Horse racing fans all over the world shift their attention from Churchill Downs to Pimlico Race Course as the Visa Triple Crown players set their sights on Baltimore for the 134th running of the Preakness Stakes "Black Eyed Susan". The middle jewel of the Visa Triple Crown in set for Saturday, May 16, 2009 at historic Pimlico Race Course.

The Preakness Stakes is a classic 1 3/16 mile (1.91 km) thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds, held on the third Saturday in May of each year at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Colts and geldings carry 126 pounds (57 kg); fillies 121 lb (55 kg). Like its preceding Triple Crown race, the Preakness Stakes have been termed "The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans" because a horseshoe of black-eyed susans is traditionally placed around the winner's neck.

The Woodlawn Vase and the Preakness Stakes

The Woodlawn Vase, 34 inches in height and weighing 29 pounds, 12 ounces, was created by Tiffany and Company in 1860 for R. Aitcheson Alexander as a trophy for the now defunct Woodlawn Racing Association in Louisville, Kentucky. Created as a challenge cup, the Woodlawn Vase was first awarded to Captain R.G. Moore's mare, Mollie Jackson, in 1861. The same owner retained possession the following year through the victory of the mare Idlewind. Preakness Stakes Trophy

Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Track

The Pimlico Race Track is home of the Preakness Stakes, the Pimlico first opened its doors on October 25, 1870. It is the second oldest racetrack in the U.S. The first was Saratoga, upstate New York in 1864. The Pimlico racetrack was engineered by General John Ellicott and has hosted legendary horses such as Man O' War, Sir Barton, Sea Biscuit, War Admiral,  Citation, Secretariat, Cigar and Silver Charm. The Pimlico is constructed on 70 acres overlooking the Jones Falls, the Maryland Jockey Club purchased the land for $23,500, and built the racetrack for $25,000 Still today the Maryland Jockey Club is dedicated to presenting the great sport of Thoroughbred racing as the centerpiece of a high-quality entertainment experience providing fun and excitement in an inviting and friendly atmosphere for people of all ages.

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