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
2009 Preakness Stakes a filly made up the field. The 2009 Preakness Stakes included entertainment in the infield. The performers in the infield included ZZ Top, Buckcherry, and Charm City Devils. In addition, there was a professional volleyball tournament in the infield. This year also marked the first year in which fans were not allowed to bring their own beverages into the infield, a move which has drawn some mixed reactions. Infield ticket sales were down 17% this year, which some are attributing to the ban, but others attribute to the recession. 2009 Preakness Stakes The 2009 Preakness Stakes was the 134th running