The phrase “Black-Eyed Susan Preakness” evokes a blend of floral beauty, thrilling horse racing, and time-honored Maryland tradition. It encompasses more than just a flower and a race; it’s a symbolic representation of the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel in horse racing’s Triple Crown. Understanding the full scope requires exploring the Black-Eyed Susan flower itself, its connection to the Preakness, and the iconic cocktail that shares its name.
The Black-Eyed Susan Flower: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The Black-Eyed Susan, scientifically known as Rudbeckia hirta, is a vibrant wildflower native to North America. Its sunny disposition, characterized by golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown or black central disk, makes it a beloved sight in meadows and gardens across the continent. While visually striking, the Black-Eyed Susan’s journey to becoming the official flower of the Preakness Stakes is a fascinating tale.
Its association with Maryland dates back to 1918, when it was officially designated as the state flower. This recognition stems from its widespread presence throughout the state’s landscapes and its resilient nature, mirroring the spirit of Marylanders. The flower’s beauty and accessibility further cemented its place as a symbol of the state.
The Flower’s Symbolism: Maryland Pride and Racing Glory
The Black-Eyed Susan represents far more than just aesthetics. It embodies Maryland pride, celebrating the state’s natural beauty and agricultural heritage. In the context of the Preakness Stakes, it takes on an additional layer of meaning, representing the race’s prestige and the culmination of intense competition.
The winning horse of the Preakness Stakes is traditionally draped with a blanket of Black-Eyed Susans. However, there’s a slight catch: Black-Eyed Susans typically aren’t in full bloom during the Preakness, which is held in May. Therefore, the blanket presented to the winning horse is often composed of Viking daisies, carefully arranged and daubed with black paint in the center to resemble the true Black-Eyed Susan. This artistic substitution ensures that the winner’s circle is adorned with the symbolic flower, regardless of the season.
This tradition adds to the lore of the Preakness, showcasing a commitment to upholding the symbolism associated with the Black-Eyed Susan even if it requires a little creative license. The visual impact of the blanket against the backdrop of the winner’s circle is a powerful representation of victory and tradition.
Preakness Stakes: A Race Steeped in History
The Preakness Stakes, held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland, is a Grade 1 American thoroughbred horse race for three-year-olds. As the second leg of the Triple Crown, following the Kentucky Derby and preceding the Belmont Stakes, it is one of the most prestigious and closely watched races in the world.
The race’s history dates back to 1873, named after the colt Preakness, who won the Dinner Party Stakes on the track’s opening day in 1870. The Preakness Stakes has evolved over the years, becoming a cornerstone of American horse racing and a major cultural event in Maryland.
Pimlico Race Course: Home of the Preakness
Pimlico Race Course, often affectionately called “Old Hilltop,” is an integral part of the Preakness experience. Its historic grounds have witnessed countless thrilling races and memorable moments, solidifying its place as a legendary venue in the world of horse racing. The track’s atmosphere is electric on Preakness Day, drawing crowds from across the globe to witness the spectacle.
The track’s famous “Preakness Winners’ Circle” is marked by the iconic “Old Weather Vane” featuring the horse and jockey. After each Preakness, the weather vane is repainted with the colors of the winning team, a tradition that adds to the unique charm of Pimlico and the Preakness Stakes.
The Triple Crown Connection: Pursuit of Racing Immortality
The Preakness Stakes holds immense significance for horses vying for the Triple Crown. Only a select few horses have achieved the coveted title, winning all three races in the same year. A victory at the Preakness is crucial for any horse with Triple Crown aspirations, adding immense pressure and excitement to the race. The quest for the Triple Crown makes the Preakness Stakes a compelling event, captivating racing enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
The Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail: A Toast to Tradition
Beyond the flower and the race, the Black-Eyed Susan is also the name of the official cocktail of the Preakness Stakes. This refreshing and flavorful drink is a staple at Pimlico on race day, contributing to the festive atmosphere.
The recipe for the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail has evolved over time, but it typically includes vodka, rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine. The result is a sweet and tangy beverage with a vibrant color reminiscent of the Black-Eyed Susan flower. It is a perfect complement to a day at the races, offering a taste of Maryland tradition with every sip.
The Evolution of the Recipe: From Regional Variation to Official Drink
The origins of the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail are somewhat murky, with various regional variations existing before it became the official drink of the Preakness Stakes. The modern recipe, as it is known today, was officially adopted in recent decades, standardizing the ingredients and ensuring consistency across the bars at Pimlico Race Course.
The recipe’s evolution reflects the changing tastes and preferences of racegoers, as well as the desire to create a signature drink that embodies the spirit of the Preakness. While variations may still exist in private settings, the official recipe provides a consistent and recognizable experience for those celebrating the race.
Making Your Own Black-Eyed Susan: A Taste of the Preakness at Home
You can easily recreate the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail at home to enjoy a taste of the Preakness tradition. While recipes may vary slightly, a common version includes the following ingredients:
- 1.5 ounces Vodka
- 0.75 ounce Dark Rum
- 2 ounces Pineapple Juice
- 0.5 ounce Orange Juice
- Splash of Grenadine
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice.
Experiment with the proportions to find a balance that suits your taste preferences. You can also add a splash of lemon-lime soda for extra fizz or adjust the amount of grenadine for desired sweetness.
The Black-Eyed Susan Preakness: A Symphony of Maryland Culture
The combination of the Black-Eyed Susan flower, the Preakness Stakes, and the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail creates a symphony of Maryland culture. Each element contributes to the overall experience, creating a tradition that is cherished by locals and visitors alike.
The Black-Eyed Susan serves as a visual representation of Maryland pride, while the Preakness Stakes provides thrilling athletic competition and a historic spectacle. The Black-Eyed Susan cocktail offers a refreshing taste of the Preakness, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event.
Beyond the Race: The Economic and Social Impact
The Preakness Stakes has a significant economic and social impact on the state of Maryland. The race draws thousands of visitors, generating revenue for local businesses and supporting the tourism industry. It also provides employment opportunities for residents and contributes to the overall vibrancy of the region.
Beyond the economic benefits, the Preakness Stakes serves as a source of pride for Marylanders, showcasing the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. The race brings people together from all walks of life, fostering a sense of community and shared identity.
Preserving the Tradition: Ensuring the Future of the Preakness
Efforts are constantly underway to preserve the tradition of the Preakness Stakes and ensure its future in Maryland. These efforts include investments in Pimlico Race Course, initiatives to attract new fans, and programs to support the local horse racing industry. Preserving the Preakness is not only about maintaining a sporting event; it is about safeguarding a cultural institution that is deeply intertwined with the identity of Maryland.
The Black-Eyed Susan, in all its forms, will continue to be a symbol of the Preakness Stakes, representing the beauty, tradition, and excitement that define this iconic event. The race remains a celebration of Maryland’s rich heritage and a thrilling spectacle that captivates audiences worldwide. The Black-Eyed Susan, the flower, the race, and the cocktail, are forever linked, embodying the spirit of the Preakness.
What is the Black-Eyed Susan Preakness all about?
The Black-Eyed Susan Preakness is a Maryland tradition that combines horse racing, specifically the Preakness Stakes, with a celebration of the state flower, the Black-Eyed Susan. It’s more than just a horse race; it’s a festive event deeply ingrained in Maryland culture. The day features the Preakness Stakes as its main attraction, but also includes other races, musical performances, and a general atmosphere of excitement and celebration that draws crowds from all over.
The tradition is intertwined with the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, a race specifically for fillies (female horses), held on the same day as the Preakness. The winning horse of the Preakness Stakes is traditionally draped with a blanket of Black-Eyed Susans, further solidifying the flower’s connection to the event. The event is a highlight of the Maryland social calendar, representing a blend of sport, tradition, and state pride.
Why is the Black-Eyed Susan the symbol of the Preakness?
The Black-Eyed Susan became associated with the Preakness Stakes because it’s Maryland’s state flower. The flowers are a vibrant representation of the state and adding a blanket of black-eyed susans to the winning horse of the Preakness Stakes is a symbolic tradition.
While the blanket appears to be made of Black-Eyed Susans, it’s actually made of Viking Daisies, as black-eyed susans do not bloom at the time of the Preakness. The daisies are carefully painted to resemble the state flower. This substitution ensures that the winning horse is presented with a beautiful and visually striking symbol of Maryland’s connection to the race.
When and where does the Black-Eyed Susan Preakness take place?
The Black-Eyed Susan Preakness takes place annually in mid-May. The specific date is usually the third Saturday of May, though this can shift slightly depending on the calendar. This timing places it two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, the first race in the Triple Crown.
The event is held at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Pimlico has been the home of the Preakness Stakes since its inception in 1873, solidifying its place as a historic and iconic venue for horse racing. The track is specifically designed to accommodate large crowds and provide optimal viewing for the races.
What is the “Black-Eyed Susan” drink and its significance?
The Black-Eyed Susan is the official drink of the Preakness Stakes. It’s a cocktail created to represent the spirit and flavors of the event, embodying the same celebratory feeling that surrounds the day. The drink is often available throughout the racecourse.
Typically, the cocktail consists of vodka, rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and sweet and sour mix. The mix provides a sweet and tangy flavor profile that is designed to be refreshing, especially in the typically warm weather of mid-May. The drink is a popular part of the overall Preakness experience.
Who are some famous winners of the Preakness Stakes?
Numerous legendary horses have triumphed at the Preakness Stakes, etching their names in racing history. Secretariat, widely considered one of the greatest racehorses of all time, won the Preakness in 1973 as part of his Triple Crown victory. Affirmed, another Triple Crown winner, secured his Preakness win in 1978 after a famous rivalry with Alydar.
Other notable winners include Curlin (2007), Rachel Alexandra (2009), and American Pharoah (2015), who also went on to win the Triple Crown. These horses represent the pinnacle of racing achievement and contribute to the ongoing legacy and prestige of the Preakness Stakes. Their wins continue to be celebrated by horse racing enthusiasts and fans of the Preakness.
How can I attend or watch the Black-Eyed Susan Preakness?
Attending the Black-Eyed Susan Preakness requires purchasing tickets in advance. Tickets can be obtained through the Preakness Stakes official website and various ticketing platforms. Different ticket packages are available, offering varying levels of access and amenities, ranging from general admission to premium seating and hospitality options. Early purchase is recommended, as tickets tend to sell out quickly.
For those unable to attend in person, the Preakness Stakes is typically broadcast live on major television networks. Check your local listings for broadcast details and specific times. Additionally, many sports websites and streaming services offer live online coverage of the race, providing viewers with various angles, replays, and expert commentary. This allows fans from around the world to experience the excitement of the race.
What other events happen during Black-Eyed Susan Preakness weekend?
Black-Eyed Susan Preakness weekend extends beyond just the Preakness Stakes race itself. The weekend includes a variety of races, including the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes, which is a prominent race for three-year-old fillies. Several other undercard races take place throughout the weekend, providing a diverse and exciting program for horse racing enthusiasts.
In addition to the races, the weekend features a variety of entertainment and social events. Live music concerts, food and beverage festivals, and fashion shows are common attractions. These events contribute to the festive atmosphere and provide entertainment for attendees beyond the racing action. The weekend has grown into a multi-faceted celebration of Maryland culture.