Pimlico race course ready for major redevelopment following 150th Preakness Stakes in Maryland
The Preakness Stakes will look much different when it returns to Baltimore's historic Pimlico Race Course in 2027 following major renovations.
The final thoroughbred race was held on Saturday, the 150th version of the Preakness Stakes, before construction begins. The second leg of horse racing's Triple Crown is to be held at Laurel Park in 2026.
"I'm excited, but I'm a little upset about it, because I'm excited that they're putting money into something that's inside city limits, because Baltimore deserves to be funded, especially in the area where Pimlico is," said Tessa Collins, a Preakness attendee.
The renovation will make Pimlico the permanent home of Maryland thoroughbred racing and will allow the facility to host more than 100 racing days each year. It currently hosts about 15 yearly.
Aside from making Pimlico a world-class race track, there will be a hotel, event space, and other amenities.
150th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico
Preakness attendees went all out to make this year's event one to remember.
"I think it's really just an event that really brings people together," said Dylan Chenowith. "There are very few major events that are taking place in Baltimore, and it really means a lot to the people of Baltimore to come together on a day like this and cheer for their favorite horse and have some drinks and eat some crabcakes."
Ron Gates told WJZ that Preakness gets better each year, not just because of the races, but because of the fashion.
"When you're coming to Preakness, you want to make a statement," Gates said. "It's a big event. And I love green for one, but a lot of people are wearing the olive colors right now. I'm like, you know what I've got to step it up a bit. I want to have a bright color that's going to draw a bit of attention, but not too over the top."
Journalism, the betting favorite, won the Preakness Stakes.
Baltimore on a national stage
Fans say Preakness is about far more than just racing, but also a chance to put Baltimore on a national stage in a positive light.
"To have such an extreme event that happens here year after year, and people come in for it, it's just remarkable and it makes me feel so passionate about this city that I love so much," Collins said.
So even though this is the last event at Pimlico for a while, fans will carry on that tradition, hopefully for another 150 years to come.
"From the plans I've seen, it's going to be bigger and better when they come back, and we'll definitely be here, and I'm excited to see it," Chenowith said.
