Preakness future in limbo as championship series skips Pimlico
WBAL-TV • • sports
Key Points:
- Churchill Downs and the New York Racing Association announced a new six-race "Thoroughbred Championship Series" starting next year, featuring the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and a championship race at Churchill Downs in September, but excluding the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course.
- The future of the Preakness Stakes and Pimlico Race Course is uncertain due to the new series' schedule, with no immediate clarity on how they will be impacted.
- Maryland Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey criticized the governor's decision for opting for government ownership of the Preakness, arguing it burdens taxpayers while private-sector opportunities were overlooked.
- Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert emphasized the importance of the Preakness to horse racing history and expressed his intention to continue participating in the race if he has the right horse.
- Recent reluctance from trainers and owners to run horses in the Preakness has been due to concerns over giving horses sufficient rest between the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.
