Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Preakness Stakes Post Time
The Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown Takes Center Stage
Key Highlights of the 2025 Preakness Stakes
- Date and Location: The 2025 Preakness Stakes is held on Saturday, May 17th, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.
- Main Race Post Time: The official post time for the Preakness Stakes is approximately 7:01 p.m. ET.
- Coverage Details: Extensive pre-race coverage and the race itself will be broadcast on NBC and available for live streaming on Peacock and FuboTV.
Get ready for the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, the highly anticipated second leg of the Triple Crown! This historic race, held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, draws significant attention from horse racing enthusiasts and sports fans alike. Knowing the exact timing of the main race is crucial for planning your viewing experience, whether you're watching from home or attending the event.
When the Gates Open and the Action Starts
While the main Preakness Stakes race has a specific post time, the day at Pimlico Race Course is filled with other races and activities. For those attending in person, the facility admission gates open early, allowing ample time to soak in the atmosphere and catch the undercard races.
Facility Opening Time
On Preakness Day, Saturday, May 17th, the facility admission gates at Pimlico Race Course are scheduled to open at 9:00 a.m. ET. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to avoid heavier traffic that typically builds between noon and 3:00 p.m.
First Post Time
The first race of the day, known as the "first post," is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. ET. This marks the beginning of a full day of racing leading up to the main event.
The All-Important Preakness Stakes Post Time
The focal point of the day is the running of the Preakness Stakes itself. This Grade 1 stakes race, contested over a distance of 1 3/16 miles on the dirt track at Pimlico, features some of the top three-year-old thoroughbreds in the country.
Official Post Time
The official post time for the 150th Preakness Stakes is approximately 7:01 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 17th, 2025. It's important to note that while this is the scheduled time, post times can sometimes be fluid and may vary by a few minutes.
Why is it called "Post Time"?
The term "post time" in horse racing refers to the scheduled moment when horses are expected to be at the starting gate, ready for the race to begin. It's the official start time for that particular race.
How to Watch the 2025 Preakness Stakes
For those who cannot attend in person, there are several ways to watch the 2025 Preakness Stakes from the comfort of your home.
Television Coverage
NBC will provide extensive television coverage of the Preakness Stakes. Pre-race coverage is scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m. ET, leading up to the main race.
Live Streaming Options
If you prefer to stream the event, the Preakness Stakes will be available on Peacock and FuboTV. FuboTV also offers a free trial option for new users.
Understanding the Preakness Stakes
The Preakness Stakes is the second jewel of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes. It's a significant race in the world of thoroughbred horse racing with a rich history and unique traditions.
Distance and Track
The race is run over a distance of 1 3/16 miles on the dirt track at Pimlico Race Course. This distance is slightly shorter than the Kentucky Derby (1 1/4 miles) and longer than the Belmont Stakes (1 1/2 miles), presenting a different challenge for the competing horses.
Horses competing on the track at Pimlico Race Course.
Triple Crown Significance
The Preakness Stakes plays a crucial role in the pursuit of the Triple Crown. A horse must win the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in the same year to achieve this rare and prestigious feat. With the Kentucky Derby winner, Sovereignty, not competing in the Preakness this year, the possibility of a Triple Crown winner is no longer on the table for 2025.
Notable Traditions
The Preakness Stakes is steeped in tradition. Two notable rituals include the draping of the winner with a blanket of flowers resembling black-eyed Susans, Maryland's state flower, and the painting of the winning horse's colors on the Pimlico weather vane.
Horses to Watch
Even without the Kentucky Derby winner, the 150th Preakness Stakes field features several compelling contenders. Handicappers and fans will be closely watching these horses as they prepare to compete for the coveted Woodlawn Vase.
Leading Contenders
Journalism is considered a strong contender, coming off a second-place finish in the Kentucky Derby. Goal Oriented, trained by the legendary Bob Baffert (who has won the Preakness eight times), is also a horse to keep an eye on, despite being relatively inexperienced with only two career wins. Another interesting entrant is Heart of Honor, trained by Jaime Osborne and ridden by his daughter, Saffie Osborne.
Betting on the Preakness
Wagering on the Preakness Stakes is a popular activity for many fans. Patrons can place bets through various platforms, including 1/ST BET, the official betting app of the Preakness. The final field typically consists of up to 14 horses, with trainers making decisions based on their horses' condition and readiness.
Contenders lining up at the starting gate.
Historical Context and Future of Pimlico
The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes holds particular significance as it is expected to be the last held at the historic Pimlico Race Course in its current configuration. Demolition is planned to begin in June as part of a $400 million redevelopment project.
Pimlico Race Course's Legacy
Pimlico Race Course has been the home of the Preakness Stakes since 1873, making it one of the oldest racetracks in the United States. It has witnessed countless memorable races and played a vital role in the history of horse racing.
A glimpse into the past: attendees at Pimlico Race Course in 1928.
Redevelopment Plans
The planned redevelopment aims to modernize the facilities at Pimlico, ensuring the future of the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore. The project is expected to transform the race day experience for fans and participants.
Preakness Stakes Race Day Schedule Overview
To help you plan your Preakness Day, here is a summary of the key timings:
| Event | Approximate Time (ET) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Facility Admission Gates Open | 9:00 a.m. | Arrive early for lighter traffic. |
| First Post (First Race) | 10:30 a.m. | Start of the undercard races. |
| Television Coverage Begins (NBC) | 4:00 p.m. | Pre-race analysis and features. |
| Preakness Stakes Post Time | 7:01 p.m. | The main event. Time is approximate. |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Preakness Stakes
What is the distance of the Preakness Stakes?
The Preakness Stakes is run over a distance of 1 3/16 miles (9.5 furlongs) on the dirt track at Pimlico Race Course.
Is the Kentucky Derby winner always in the Preakness?
No, the Kentucky Derby winner is not always required to run in the Preakness Stakes. The decision rests with the horse's owner and trainer, based on the horse's condition and suitability for the race.
What is the purse for the 2025 Preakness Stakes?
The total purse for the 2025 Preakness Stakes is $2 million. In addition to the purse, the winning team receives a replica of the Woodlawn Vase.
Are there other races on Preakness Day?
Yes, Preakness Day features a full card of races leading up to the Preakness Stakes. The first race typically starts in the late morning.
What are some traditions of the Preakness Stakes?
Key traditions include the draping of the winner with a blanket of black-eyed Susans and the painting of the winning silks on the Pimlico weather vane.
Recommended Further Exploration
- Who are the top horses competing in the 2025 Preakness Stakes and what are their odds?
- What is the history of Pimlico Race Course and its connection to the Preakness Stakes?
- What are the different ways to place a wager on the Preakness Stakes?
- When and where are the other Triple Crown races held in 2025?
References
Last updated May 17, 2025