The rollicking kegger known as the Preakness infield party will no longer be the same because race officials Thursday prohibited fans from bringing in alcohol and other beverages including water into the infield.
Tom Chuckas, Maryland Jockey Club president, said the ban has been enacted to create “a new way to party” at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore.
“In this year of change it is now time to transform the Preakness infield experience,” he said.
The changes for 2009 will include the addition of bands ZZ Top and Buck Cherry.
“The alcohol policy is just one of many changes that are going to happen in a couple days,” said Mike Gathagan, the club’s vice president of communications.
The policies being enacted - including the ban on beverages - are very similar to the policies of the Virgin Mobile Festival held at Pimlico, said Mr. Gathagan, adding that officials learned a lot from the festival.
Chief Kevin Cartwright, spokesman for the Baltimore City Fire Department, said a high number of injuries have occurred at past races and he hopes the ban on alcoholic beverages will improve the situation.
In 2007, at least 55 spectators were transported to the hospital from Preakness. In 2006, there were 42. And in 2004, it was 55. Among the injuries were broken ankles and legs, head or face injuries, cuts and chest pain.
Mr. Cartwright said the ban should “decrease some of the incidents that develop in that environment.”
However, he was concerned about bottled water being included in the ban.
“It can be a health hazard,” Mr. Cartwright said. “This could pose potential problems and may precipitate dehydration.”
He advised those attending the May 16 event to drink plenty of water before coming to the track.
Infield spectators can still buy 16-ounce beers for $3.50.
This isn’t the first ban on beverages enacted in a horse track. Though the Kentucky Derby never allowed spectators bringing alcohol into the Churchill Downs track, in 2002 it banned all beverages in cans and plastic bottles. The Belmont Stakes, in New York, the third race in the Triple Crown, has similar rules.
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