Preakness Stakes was known as the Preakness Handicap. In March 2009 Magna Entertainment Corp., which owns Pimlico, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy thus throwing open the possibility the Stakes could move again. On April 13, 2009, the Maryland Legislature approved a plan to buy the Stakes and the Pimlico course if Magna Entertainment cannot find a buyer. Attendance at the Preakness Stakes ranks second in North America and usually surpasses the attendance of all other stakes races including the Belmont Stakes, the Breeders' Cup and the Kentucky Oaks. The attendance of the Preakness Stakes typically only trails the Kentucky Derby, for more
1919 Belmont Stakes 2:17.4 set an American record for 1 –mile. 1919 Belmont Stakes The 1919 Belmont Stakes was the 51st running of the Belmont Stakes. It was the 13th Belmont Stakes held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York and was held on June 11, 1919. With a field of only three horses, heavily favored Sir Barton won the 1 –mile race (11 f; 2.2 km) by 5 lengths over Sweep On. By winning the Belmont, Sir Barton became the first horse to win the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes -- a feat which would later become known