The Maryland Jockey Club is ending the long-standing tradition of spectators bringing their own beer onto the infield at the Preakness Stakes. We like to think we had something to do with that.
The Preakness infield has long been a source of wonder and amusement, and we here at Deadspin have brought you the fans' drunken adventures every year, culminating this past May with this wonderful series of photos by the Baltimore Sun. That most likely was the last straw for Preakness officials, who may not have been thrilled that a drunken fan got more publicity than the winning horse ... um, who was it again?
Relive the glory as the man pictured above attempts to leap from one port-a-john to another, resulting in humiliation and fail. And notice how random spectators reward his bravery by pelting him with beer cans. That is the Preakness to me. But sadly, it shall be no more.
"No beverage of any kind (cans or bottles), including alcohol, soft drinks and water will be allowed to be brought into the public infield. Sixteen ounce beers will be sold for $3.50."
Softening the blow was the announcement that there will be several added entertainment elements, including a pro women's beach volleyball tournament and a concert featuring Rock 'n Roll Hall of Famer ZZ Top, contemporary rockers Buckcherry and a local group yet to be announced.
Lure of $3.50 beer and Buckcherry ... hard to resist ...
Preakness Tradition Ends; Outside Beverages Banned From Infield [Baltimore Sun]