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Study Guide: Pimlico Race Course: History, Events, and Future

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Pimlico Race Course: History, Events, and Future Study Guide

Founding and Early History of Pimlico

Pimlico Race Course is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. Pimlico Race Course is located in Baltimore, Maryland, not Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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The name "Pimlico" was derived from a famous racehorse that competed in the late 19th century.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. The name 'Pimlico' was derived from a London tavern named Olde Ben Pimlico's Tavern, not from a racehorse.

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Pimlico Race Course officially opened in 1870, and the first race was won by a horse named "Pimlico."

Answer: False

Explanation: Pimlico Race Course officially opened on October 25, 1870. The first race was won by a colt named Preakness, not 'Pimlico'.

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The original Clubhouse at Pimlico, known for its "steamboat Gothic-era" style, was destroyed by fire in 1966.

Answer: True

Explanation: The original Clubhouse at Pimlico, noted for its "steamboat Gothic-era" architectural style, was indeed destroyed by fire on June 17, 1966.

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Pimlico Race Track has operated continuously without interruption since its opening in 1870.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. Pimlico Race Track has faced numerous historical challenges and interruptions throughout its operation, including fires, economic depressions, riots, and legislative actions, indicating it has not operated continuously without interruption.

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In 1877, the U.S. Congress declared a national holiday to allow members to attend a race at Pimlico.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Congress did adjourn to attend a race at Pimlico in 1877, it did not declare a national holiday for this purpose. Congress itself shut down for the day.

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The 1877 "Great Race" at Pimlico was a 2.5-mile sprint featuring three champion horses.

Answer: True

Explanation: The "Great Race" held at Pimlico on October 24, 1877, was indeed a 2.5-mile match race featuring three champion horses: Ten Broeck, Tom Ochiltree, and Parole.

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A four-ton stone bas relief commemorating the 1877 "Great Race" hangs over the clubhouse entrance at Pimlico.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 1877 "Great Race" is commemorated at Pimlico Race Course by a four-ton stone bas relief located above the clubhouse entrance.

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The name "Pimlico" was inspired by what?

Answer: A tavern in London named Olde Ben Pimlico's Tavern.

Explanation: The name 'Pimlico' for the race course area originates from Olde Ben Pimlico's Tavern, a notable establishment in London, which inspired English settlers in the 1660s.

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Which horse won the inaugural race at Pimlico Race Course on October 25, 1870?

Answer: Preakness

Explanation: The colt named Preakness won the inaugural race at Pimlico Race Course on October 25, 1870. The race was the Dinner Party Stakes.

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What happened to the distinctive weathervane atop the original Pimlico Clubhouse?

Answer: It was salvaged and relocated after the clubhouse burned down.

Explanation: When the original Pimlico Clubhouse burned down in 1966, the weathervane was the only item salvaged and was subsequently relocated to a replica Victorian cupola in the infield.

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Which of the following historical events did Pimlico Race Track *NOT* endure according to the source?

Answer: World War II

Explanation: According to the provided source material, Pimlico Race Track endured events such as the Great Depression, Prohibition, and the Great Fire of Baltimore (1904). World War II is not listed as an event it endured.

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What was the outcome of the 1949 legislative effort concerning Pimlico Race Track?

Answer: Governor Lane Jr. reversed his support, allowing the track to continue operating.

Explanation: In 1949, a legislative effort to abandon Pimlico Race Track was initially supported by Governor William Preston Lane Jr. However, the governor later reversed his position, ultimately allowing the track to continue its operations.

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What unusual event involving the U.S. Congress occurred in 1877 related to Pimlico?

Answer: Congress adjourned for the day to attend a horse race.

Explanation: In 1877, the United States Congress adjourned for the day specifically to allow its members to attend a horse race held at Pimlico Race Course.

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The four-ton stone bas relief over Pimlico's clubhouse entrance commemorates which event?

Answer: The 1877 "Great Race" featuring Ten Broeck and others.

Explanation: The four-ton stone bas relief located over Pimlico's clubhouse entrance commemorates the 'Great Race' of 1877, which featured notable horses such as Ten Broeck, Tom Ochiltree, and Parole.

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The Preakness Stakes and Thoroughbred Racing

The Preakness Stakes is the second leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Preakness Stakes is indeed recognized as the second jewel in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes.

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The Preakness Stakes race was named in honor of the horse Preakness, the winner of the inaugural race at Pimlico.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Preakness Stakes race was indeed named in honor of the horse Preakness, who won the inaugural Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico in 1870. The race named in his honor was first run in 1873.

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The Preakness Stakes and the Pimlico Special are run at different distances, with the Preakness being longer.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. Both the Preakness Stakes and the Pimlico Special are run at the same standard distance of 1-3/16 miles.

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The 2007 Preakness Stakes set a record for attendance at a sporting event in Maryland history.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 2007 Preakness Stakes at Pimlico did indeed set a record for attendance at a sporting event in Maryland history, drawing over 121,000 spectators.

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What is the primary reason for Pimlico Race Course's fame?

Answer: Hosting the prestigious Preakness Stakes.

Explanation: Pimlico Race Course is most renowned for hosting the prestigious Preakness Stakes, a significant event in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.

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The Preakness Stakes, first run in 1873, derives its name from:

Answer: The horse that won the inaugural race at Pimlico in 1870.

Explanation: The Preakness Stakes, first contested in 1873, was named in honor of the horse Preakness, who achieved victory in the inaugural Dinner Party Stakes at Pimlico in 1870.

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What is the standard racing distance for both the Preakness Stakes and the Pimlico Special?

Answer: 1-3/16 miles

Explanation: Both the Preakness Stakes and the Pimlico Special are contested at a standard racing distance of 1-3/16 miles, equivalent to 9.5 furlongs.

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The record attendance for the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico in 2007 included which financial detail?

Answer: Over $87.2 million wagered.

Explanation: The record attendance for the 2007 Preakness Stakes at Pimlico was accompanied by a financial detail of over $87.2 million being wagered on the races that day.

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Which of the following is listed as a Grade 3 Stakes Race held at Pimlico?

Answer: Pimlico Special

Explanation: The Pimlico Special is listed as a Grade 3 Stakes Race held at Pimlico Race Course, inaugurated in 1937.

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Pimlico Race Course: Features and Infrastructure

Pimlico Race Course's nickname, "Old Hilltop," refers to a prominent hill visible from downtown Baltimore.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. The nickname 'Old Hilltop' refers to a small rise in the track's infield that was a favored gathering spot for trainers and enthusiasts, not a prominent hill visible from downtown Baltimore.

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Pimlico Race Course features a single, multi-purpose oval track.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. Pimlico Race Course features two distinct ovals: a one-mile dirt track and a seven-furlong turf track within it.

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What is the origin of Pimlico Race Course's nickname, "Old Hilltop"?

Answer: It comes from a small rise in the track's infield favored by enthusiasts.

Explanation: Pimlico Race Course's nickname, 'Old Hilltop,' originates from a small rise within the track's infield that became a favored gathering spot for thoroughbred trainers and racing enthusiasts.

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Pimlico Race Course features two distinct racing ovals. What are they?

Answer: A 1-mile dirt oval and a 7-furlong turf oval.

Explanation: Pimlico Race Course features two distinct racing ovals: a one-mile dirt oval and a seven-furlong turf oval situated within the dirt track.

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What was the approximate total capacity of Pimlico Race Course, including the infield?

Answer: 120,000 people

Explanation: The approximate total capacity of Pimlico Race Course, encompassing the infield area, is over 120,000 people.

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Ownership and Governance Transitions

The Stronach Group owned Pimlico Race Course from 2011 until its transfer to the state-run MTROA in 2024.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Stronach Group held ownership of Pimlico Race Course from 2011 until its transfer to the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) in 2024.

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Penn National Gaming acquired full ownership of Pimlico Race Course in 2011.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. While Penn National Gaming was involved in operations, full ownership of the Maryland Jockey Club, including Pimlico, was gained by The Stronach Group in 2011.

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The October 2019 agreement aimed to permanently keep the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico and involved donating the tracks to new government entities.

Answer: True

Explanation: The October 2019 agreement did aim to permanently secure the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico and included provisions for donating the tracks to new government entities as part of a redevelopment plan.

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In March 2024, Pimlico Race Course was sold to a private consortium of horse owners.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. In March 2024, Pimlico Race Course was transferred to the state-run Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA), not sold to a private consortium.

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The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) is responsible for managing the Pimlico property and consolidating racing operations.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) is a state-run entity tasked with overseeing Pimlico's properties and consolidating thoroughbred racing operations within the state of Maryland.

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The MTROA assumed ownership of Pimlico on July 1, 2024, and immediately began demolition.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. While the MTROA assumed ownership on July 1, 2024, the track closed for its reconstruction project on September 1, 2024, rather than immediately beginning demolition.

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Who transferred ownership of Pimlico Race Course to the state-run Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) in 2024?

Answer: The Stronach Group

Explanation: The Stronach Group transferred ownership of Pimlico Race Course to the state-run Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) in 2024 as part of a significant deal.

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Which entity eventually gained full control of the Maryland Jockey Club (including Pimlico) in 2011?

Answer: The Stronach Group

Explanation: In June 2011, The Stronach Group gained full control of the Maryland Jockey Club, which includes Pimlico Race Course, following a series of transactions involving MI Development and Penn National Gaming.

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What is the function of the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA)?

Answer: To oversee Pimlico's properties and consolidate Maryland's racing operations.

Explanation: The Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA) is a state-run entity tasked with overseeing Pimlico's properties and consolidating thoroughbred racing operations within the state of Maryland.

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Renovations and Future of Pimlico

Following renovations starting in September 2024, all of Pimlico's racing dates were permanently moved to a new facility in Delaware.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. While Pimlico closed for renovations in September 2024, its racing dates were transferred to Laurel Park, not a new facility in Delaware, and the move was not permanent for all dates, notably excluding the 2025 Preakness Stakes.

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A 2017 study estimated the initial phase of renovations for Pimlico would cost around $250 million.

Answer: True

Explanation: A study released in February 2017 by the Maryland Stadium Authority estimated that the initial phase of renovations for Pimlico Race Course would require approximately $250 million.

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A 2018 report recommended preserving the existing buildings at Pimlico Race Course due to their historical significance.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. A 2018 report recommended the demolition and rebuilding of the existing structures at Pimlico Race Course, rather than their preservation.

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The Racing and Community Development Act authorized $375 million in bonds for the renovation of Pimlico and other state facilities.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Racing and Community Development Act, passed in May 2020, authorized the issuance of $375 million in bonds to fund the renovation of Pimlico Race Course and other state facilities.

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Laurel Park will serve as the primary venue for thoroughbred racing during Pimlico's reconstruction.

Answer: True

Explanation: During the reconstruction of Pimlico Race Course, day-to-day thoroughbred racing and training activities in Maryland will primarily take place at Laurel Park.

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The planned renovations for Pimlico include the construction of a new casino and hotel complex.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. The planned renovations include a hotel and event space, but not a casino complex.

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What happened to Pimlico Race Course's racing dates after its closure for renovations in September 2024?

Answer: They were transferred to Laurel Park, except for the 2025 Preakness Stakes.

Explanation: Following the closure of Pimlico Race Course for renovations in September 2024, its racing dates were transferred to Laurel Park, with the exception of the 2025 Preakness Stakes.

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According to a 2017 study, what was the approximate cost for the initial phase of renovations needed at Pimlico Race Course?

Answer: $250 million

Explanation: A 2017 study conducted by the Maryland Stadium Authority estimated the approximate cost for the initial phase of renovations needed at Pimlico Race Course to be $250 million.

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What did a December 2018 report suggest about the existing buildings at Pimlico Race Course?

Answer: Demolition and rebuilding.

Explanation: A December 2018 report recommended that the existing buildings at Pimlico Race Course should be demolished and rebuilt as part of the planned renovation project.

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The October 2019 agreement concerning Pimlico included plans to:

Answer: Demolish the grandstand and build a smaller replacement.

Explanation: The October 2019 agreement concerning Pimlico included plans to demolish the existing grandstand and construct a smaller replacement structure, among other redevelopment initiatives.

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What did the Racing and Community Development Act of May 2020 authorize for Pimlico's renovation?

Answer: The issuance of $375 million in bonds.

Explanation: The Racing and Community Development Act of May 2020 authorized the Maryland Stadium Authority to issue $375 million in bonds to fund the renovation of Pimlico Race Course and other state facilities.

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During Pimlico's reconstruction, where will day-to-day thoroughbred racing and training primarily take place?

Answer: At Laurel Park.

Explanation: During Pimlico's reconstruction period, day-to-day thoroughbred racing and training activities in Maryland will primarily take place at Laurel Park.

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Which of the following is planned as a new facility for the renovated Pimlico Race Course?

Answer: A hotel and event space.

Explanation: A hotel and event space are planned as part of the new facilities for the renovated Pimlico Race Course.

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Notable Races, Horses, and Historical Anecdotes

The famous 1938 match race at Pimlico featured Seabiscuit competing against Man o' War.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. The famous 1938 match race at Pimlico featured Seabiscuit competing against War Admiral, not Man o' War.

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The track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico was set in the 21st century.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. The track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico was set in 1991 by Farma Way, which is in the 20th century, not the 21st.

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Alfred G. Vanderbilt described Pimlico as merely a functional facility for horse racing.

Answer: False

Explanation: This statement is false. Alfred G. Vanderbilt described Pimlico as an 'accepted American institution' with a 'graced by time' and 'honorable past,' indicating it was viewed as far more than merely a functional facility.

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The legendary 1938 match race at Pimlico pitted Seabiscuit against which other famous horse?

Answer: War Admiral

Explanation: The legendary 1938 match race at Pimlico pitted Seabiscuit against War Admiral. This highly anticipated event is one of the most famous races in American thoroughbred history.

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Who holds the Pimlico track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance, and in what year was it set?

Answer: Farma Way, 1991

Explanation: The track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico is held by Farma Way, who set this record in 1991 when winning the Pimlico Special.

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Alfred G. Vanderbilt's quote suggests Pimlico Race Course should be viewed primarily as:

Answer: An established American institution with a respected past.

Explanation: Alfred G. Vanderbilt's quote emphasizes Pimlico Race Course's status as an 'accepted American institution' with a 'graced by time' and 'honorable past,' aligning with the view of it as an established entity with a respected history.

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Pimlico's Diverse Uses and Events

Since 2014, Pimlico Race Course has hosted which annual music festival?

Answer: Moonrise Festival

Explanation: Since 2014, Pimlico Race Course has hosted the Moonrise Festival, an annual electronic dance music festival.

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What is the purpose of the annual ritual involving the local Orthodox Jewish community at Pimlico Race Course?

Answer: To conduct a ritual burning of chametz before Passover.

Explanation: The local Orthodox Jewish community utilizes Pimlico Race Course annually for the ritual burning of chametz, a practice observed before the Passover holiday.

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