What is Pimlico Race Course and what is its primary claim to fame?

Pimlico Race Course is a thoroughbred horse racetrack located in Baltimore, Maryland. It is most famous for hosting the prestigious Preakness Stakes, a key event in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing.

What is the historical origin of the name "Pimlico"?

The name "Pimlico" originates from the 1660s when English settlers named the area where the facility now stands. This naming was done in honor of Olde Ben Pimlico's Tavern, a notable establishment in London.

What is the nickname of Pimlico Race Course and what is the reason behind it?

Pimlico Race Course is nicknamed "Old Hilltop." This moniker comes from a small rise located in the track's infield, which became a favored spot for thoroughbred trainers and racing enthusiasts to gather.

Who were the recent and current owners of Pimlico Race Course?

Pimlico Race Course was owned by The Stronach Group from 2011 until 2024. In 2024, ownership transferred to the state-run Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA).

What significant operational changes occurred at Pimlico Race Course in September 2024?

Pimlico Race Course closed for renovations in September 2024. All of its racing dates, except for the 2025 Preakness Stakes, were transferred to Laurel Park while the reconstruction project is underway.

When did Pimlico Race Course officially open, and what horse won the inaugural race?

Pimlico Race Course officially opened on October 25, 1870. The colt Preakness won the first race, which was the Dinner Party Stakes.

How did the Preakness Stakes get its name?

The Preakness Stakes was 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.

What famous match race occurred at Pimlico on November 1, 1938?

On November 1, 1938, Pimlico Race Course hosted a famous match race between the legendary horses Seabiscuit and War Admiral in the second Pimlico Special. This event drew an estimated crowd of 43,000 spectators.

Describe the original Clubhouse at Pimlico and its fate.

The original Clubhouse at Pimlico was a notable architectural feature designed in the "steamboat Gothic-era" style. It was topped by a weathervane that was repainted annually in the colors of the Preakness winner. This historic building tragically burned down on June 17, 1966, with only the weathervane being salvaged and relocated.

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

Both the Preakness Stakes and the Pimlico Special are run at a distance of 1-3/16 miles, which is equivalent to 9.5 furlongs.

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

The track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico is held by the horse Farma Way. He set this record in 1991 when he won the Pimlico Special.

What significant historical events has Pimlico Race Track endured?

Over its more than a century of operation, Pimlico Race Track has weathered significant historical events, including the 1904 Great Fire of Baltimore, the Great Depression of the 1930s, several notable Baltimore riots, and Prohibition. It also survived an anti-gambling movement in 1910.

What was the outcome of the 1949 effort to abandon Pimlico Race Track?

In 1949, a bill sponsored by the state racing commission proposed abandoning the track. Initially supported by Governor William Preston Lane Jr., the governor reversed his position in late March, allowing the track to continue operating.

What quote by Alfred G. Vanderbilt reflects the significance of Pimlico?

Alfred G. Vanderbilt described Pimlico as more than just a dirt track, stating, "Pimlico is more than a dirt track bounded by four streets. It is an accepted American institution, devoted to the best interests of a great sport, graced by time, respected for its honorable past."

What attendance record was set at Pimlico for the Preakness Stakes?

In 2007, the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico drew an official attendance of 121,263 people, setting a record for the most spectators at a sporting event in Maryland history. Additionally, over $87.2 million was wagered on the races that day.

Describe the ownership changes of Pimlico and Laurel Park in the early 2010s.

In March 2010, an agreement was made to sell the Maryland Jockey Club tracks (Pimlico and Laurel Park) from Magna Entertainment Corporation to its parent company, MI Development. Subsequently, Penn National Gaming announced a joint ownership and operation agreement with MI Development for the Maryland Jockey Club. By June 2011, The Stronach Group took full control after MI Development bought out Penn National Gaming's stake.

What was the estimated cost for the initial phase of renovations for Pimlico, as reported in 2017?

In February 2017, the Maryland Stadium Authority released a study indicating that Pimlico Race Course required approximately $250 million for its initial phase of renovations.

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

A report issued on December 14, 2018, suggested that the existing buildings at Pimlico Race Course should be demolished and rebuilt as part of the renovation plans.

What was the outcome of the October 2019 agreement concerning the Preakness Stakes and Pimlico?

In October 2019, The Stronach Group reached an agreement in principle with the city of Baltimore and Maryland horsemen's groups to permanently keep the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico. This agreement involved donating the tracks to new government entities and implementing significant redevelopment plans.

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

Approved by the Maryland General Assembly in May 2020, the Racing and Community Development Act authorized the Maryland Stadium Authority to issue $375 million in bonds specifically for the renovation of both The Stronach Group's tracks, including Pimlico.

When did the MTROA assume ownership of Pimlico, and what was the immediate impact on the track's operations?

The MTROA assumed ownership of the Pimlico property on July 1, 2024. On the same date, it was announced that the entire Pimlico property would close on September 1, 2024, to commence the reconstruction project.

Where will day-to-day thoroughbred racing and training occur in Maryland during Pimlico's reconstruction?

During the reconstruction of Pimlico Race Course, day-to-day thoroughbred racing and training in Maryland will be hosted at Laurel Park until the renovations at Pimlico are completed.

What are the planned new facilities for the renovated Pimlico Race Course?

Plans for the new Pimlico facility include the construction of a hotel and event space. The existing grandstand is slated for demolition after the 2025 Preakness Stakes.

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

On October 24, 1877, the United States Congress shut down for the day so that its members could attend a horse race held at Pimlico Race Course.

Describe the "Great Race" held at Pimlico in 1877.

The "Great Race" on October 24, 1877, was a 2.5-mile match race featuring three champion horses: Ten Broeck, Tom Ochiltree, and Parole. An estimated 20,000 people gathered at Pimlico to witness the event.

How is the 1877 "Great Race" commemorated at Pimlico Race Course?

The 1877 race is commemorated by a four-ton stone bas relief hanging over the clubhouse entrance at Pimlico. This artwork, sculpted by Bernard Zuckerman, is a copy of a Currier & Ives print and is gilded in 24-karat gold leaf.

What are the dimensions and types of ovals at Pimlico Race Course?

Pimlico Race Course features a one-mile dirt oval and, within it, a seven-furlong (7/8 mile) turf oval.

What is the total capacity of Pimlico Race Course?

Pimlico Race Course has a total capacity of over 120,000 people, including the infield area.

What are the Grade 1 Stakes Races run at Pimlico?

The only Grade 1 Stakes Race run at Pimlico is the Preakness Stakes, which was inaugurated in 1873.

What are some of the Grade 3 Stakes Races held at Pimlico?

The Grade 3 Stakes Races run at Pimlico include the Pimlico Special (inaugurated 1937), Gallorette Stakes (1952), Chick Lang Stakes (1975), Miss Preakness Stakes (1986), Maryland Sprint Stakes (1987), and the Dinner Party Stakes (1870).

Which bands performed at the 2007 Virgin Festival held at Pimlico?

The 2007 Virgin Festival at Pimlico featured performances by The Police, the Beastie Boys, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Velvet Revolver.

What type of festival has been hosted at Pimlico Race Course since 2014?

Since 2014, Pimlico Race Course has been the venue for Moonrise Festival, an electronic dance music festival.

How does the local Orthodox Jewish community utilize Pimlico Race Course?

The local Orthodox Jewish community uses Pimlico Race Course annually to burn their chametz, a ritual practice before Passover.

What are the primary public transportation access points for Pimlico Race Course?

Pimlico Race Course is typically accessed via the Rogers Avenue Metro Station to the east and the Mount Washington Light Rail station to the west.

What transportation service is provided by the Maryland Transit Administration for major events at Pimlico?

For major events at Pimlico, the Maryland Transit Administration typically provides a shuttle service connecting attendees from light rail and metro stations directly to the race course.

Who is listed as a notable person associated with Pimlico Race Course?

Joseph Leo Welsh, an orchestra conductor, oddsmaker, and celebrity turf accountant, is listed as a notable person associated with Pimlico Race Course.

What is the distance of the turf oval at Pimlico Race Course?

The turf oval at Pimlico Race Course is seven furlongs, which is equivalent to 7/8 of a mile.

What was the capacity of the stadium mentioned in relation to the 1938 Seabiscuit vs. War Admiral race?

The capacity of the stadium mentioned in relation to the 1938 race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral was 98,983.

What happened to the weathervane from the original Pimlico Clubhouse?

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

What was the significance of the 2018 adoption of a GPS-based timing system at Pimlico?

In 2018, Pimlico Race Course began using a GPS-based timing system, indicating an adoption of modern technology for race tracking and analysis.

What was the name of the horse that won the first race at Pimlico, and what was the name of that race?

The horse that won the first race at Pimlico was the colt Preakness, and the race was the Dinner Party Stakes.

What were the key components of the October 2019 agreement for Pimlico's redevelopment?

The October 2019 agreement included plans to demolish and replace Pimlico's grandstand with a smaller structure, add temporary seating for Preakness week, rotate the race track 30 degrees to create land parcels for private development, and construct new barns for horses.

What is the name of the new entity that assumed control of thoroughbred racing in Maryland on January 1, 2025?

The new Maryland Jockey Club, operating as a non-profit entity of the MTROA, assumed control of thoroughbred racing in the state on January 1, 2025.

What are the street boundaries of the track area at Pimlico Race Course?

The track area at Pimlico is bounded by Park Heights and Winner Avenues to the west, West Rogers Avenue and West Northern Parkway to the north, Preakness Way to the east, and West Belvedere Avenue to the south.

What are the Grade 2 Stakes Races run at Pimlico?

The Grade 2 Stakes Race run at Pimlico is the George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, which was inaugurated in 1919.

What were some of the headlining bands from the 2006 Virgin Festival at Pimlico?

The 2006 Virgin Festival at Pimlico featured headliners such as The Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and The Who.

What is the name of the horse that holds the track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico?

The horse Farma Way holds the track record for the 1-3/16 mile distance at Pimlico.

What is the approximate number of horses that the stables at Pimlico can accommodate?

The stables at Pimlico Race Course can accommodate approximately 1,000 horses.

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The Track

Historic Grounds

Pimlico Race Course, affectionately nicknamed "Old Hilltop," is a renowned thoroughbred horse racetrack located in Baltimore, Maryland. Its name traces back to the 1660s, honoring a London tavern.

Course Layout

The facility features a one-mile dirt oval track encircling a seven-furlong (7/8 mile) turf oval. It includes stables capable of housing approximately 1,000 horses and boasts a total capacity exceeding 120,000 spectators.

The Heart of Racing

Pimlico is most celebrated for hosting the prestigious Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. It also hosts other significant races and events throughout the year.

A Storied Past

Opening Day

Pimlico officially opened its gates on October 25, 1870. The inaugural event saw the colt Preakness win the Dinner Party Stakes, drawing an estimated 12,000 attendees who arrived via special trains.

Legendary Matchups

The track is etched in racing lore for hosting the famous 1938 match race where Seabiscuit defeated War Admiral. This event, part of the second Pimlico Special, captivated an estimated 43,000 spectators.

Resilience Through Time

Pimlico has weathered significant historical events, including the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904, the Great Depression, and various social upheavals. Notably, its original Clubhouse, a steamboat Gothic-era structure, was lost to fire in 1966, though its iconic weathervane was salvaged.

Notable Races

The Preakness Stakes

Run annually in May, the Preakness Stakes is Pimlico's signature event. Established in 1873 and named after the colt who won the first Dinner Party Stakes, it is the second leg of the Triple Crown, attracting international attention.

The Preakness Stakes has been held at Pimlico since its inception, with brief interruptions. Its history is deeply intertwined with the track's identity.

Established: 1873
Distance: 1 3/16 miles
Part of: Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing

Other Graded Stakes

Pimlico hosts a variety of other prestigious races, including the Grade 2 George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, often referred to as the "Filly Triple Crown" companion race to the Preakness.

Beyond the Preakness, Pimlico features several other significant stakes races:

Grade 1: The Preakness Stakes
Grade 2: George E. Mitchell Black-Eyed Susan Stakes
Grade 3: Pimlico Special, Dinner Party Stakes, Gallorette Stakes, Chick Lang Stakes, Miss Preakness Stakes, Maryland Sprint Stakes
Listed: James A. Murphy Stakes, Hilltop Stakes, Skipat Stakes, Sir Barton Stakes, Jim McKay Turf Sprint, The Very One Stakes, Allaire duPont Distaff Stakes

Handle & Attendance

Historically, major events like the Preakness have drawn significant betting handles and large crowds. For instance, in 2014, the live racing handle was reported around $181 million, with attendance reaching over 351,000 for the meet.

Beyond the Races

Virgin Festival

From 2006 to 2008, Pimlico served as the original U.S. venue for the Virgin Festival. This major music event featured prominent artists like The Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Who, The Police, and Kanye West.

Moonrise Festival

Since 2014, Pimlico has been the home of the Moonrise Festival, an electronic dance music event that attracts thousands of fans and features internationally acclaimed DJs and producers.

Community Use

The Orthodox Jewish community utilizes Pimlico Race Course annually for the traditional burning of chametz before Passover, demonstrating the venue's integration into local community practices.

Future Transformations

Investment & Ownership Change

In March 2024, a deal was finalized transferring ownership of Pimlico from The Stronach Group to the state-run Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA). This transition is paving the way for significant renovations.

Redevelopment Plans

Plans include the demolition of the existing grandstand and the construction of a new, modern facility. The state has allocated $400 million in bonds for these renovations, which aim to revitalize the historic site and potentially include a hotel and event spaces.

The redevelopment project, approved in May 2025, involves:

Demolition of the current grandstand post-2025 Preakness Stakes.
Construction of new barns and facilities.
Potential addition of a hotel and expanded event spaces.
The track itself may be rotated to optimize land use for private development.

Temporary Closures

Pimlico closed for major renovations in September 2024. Racing dates, except for the 2025 Preakness Stakes, have been transferred to Laurel Park until the reconstruction is complete. The track is expected to temporarily reopen for the 150th Preakness Stakes in May 2025.

Location & Access

Baltimore Address

Pimlico Race Course is situated at 5201 Park Heights Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. Its location within the city influences its accessibility and community integration.

Geographic Coordinates

The precise geographic coordinates are approximately 39°21′13″N 76°40′23″W.

Ownership

Currently owned by the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA), Pimlico's stewardship reflects a commitment to preserving its legacy while modernizing its facilities.

Getting There

Public Transit

Pimlico is typically accessible via public transportation. The nearby Rogers Avenue Metro SubwayLink station and the Mount Washington Light Rail station serve as primary access points.

Event Shuttles

For major events like the Preakness Stakes, the Maryland Transit Administration often provides shuttle services connecting light rail and metro stations directly to the race course, facilitating large-scale attendance.

Key Figures

Notable Individuals

The history of Pimlico is shaped by many individuals, from legendary jockeys and trainers to influential owners and organizers. One notable figure associated with the venue is Joseph Leo Welsh, an orchestra conductor, oddsmaker, and turf accountant.

Ownership Evolution

The track's ownership has evolved over time, including periods under The Stronach Group and Penn National Gaming, culminating in its current state ownership, reflecting the dynamic nature of the racing industry.

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References

Virgin Festival 2007 – Official website.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Pimlico Race Course Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding horse racing, event management, or historical accuracy. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Pimlico: A Legacy of Speed

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Track 📍

🏇 Historic Grounds

📏 Course Layout

🏆 The Heart of Racing

A Storied Past 📜

🏁 Opening Day

🐎 Legendary Matchups

🔥 Resilience Through Time

Notable Races 🏆

👑 The Preakness Stakes

🌟 Other Graded Stakes

💰 Handle & Attendance

Beyond the Races 🎉

🎶 Virgin Festival

🎧 Moonrise Festival

✡️ Community Use

Future Transformations 🏗️

💰 Investment & Ownership Change

🏗️ Redevelopment Plans

⏳ Temporary Closures

Location & Access 🗺️

📍 Baltimore Address

🌐 Geographic Coordinates

🏛️ Ownership

Getting There 🚆

🚇 Public Transit

🚌 Event Shuttles

Key Figures 👤

👤 Notable Individuals

🤝 Ownership Evolution

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Track

Historic Grounds

Course Layout

The Heart of Racing

A Storied Past

Opening Day

Legendary Matchups

Resilience Through Time

Notable Races

The Preakness Stakes

Other Graded Stakes

Handle & Attendance

Beyond the Races

Virgin Festival

Moonrise Festival

Community Use

Future Transformations

Investment & Ownership Change

Redevelopment Plans

Temporary Closures

Location & Access

Baltimore Address

Geographic Coordinates

Ownership

Getting There

Public Transit

Event Shuttles

Key Figures

Notable Individuals

Ownership Evolution

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice