BALTIMORE — Backpacks and duffel bags will be prohibited at the Preakness this year, part of a new security policy at Pimlico Race Course influenced by the bombings at the Boston Marathon.
For the first time, only clear coolers will be allowed in the building and the infield at the middle jewel of racing’s Triple Crown. The new policy also forbids laser lights and pointers, along with cameras with lenses more than six inches in length.
In previous years, backpacks and duffel bags were allowed in the vastly populated infield. Duffel bags were permitted in the building and the grandstand, but now duffel bags and backpacks are forbidden on the entire premises. The rule applies to fans, employees and vendors.
The security measures will be in effect on the day of the Preakness, May 18, and Black-Eyed Susan day, May 17.
More than 100,000 fans have attended the Preakness in 10 of the last 12 years, including a record 121,309 last year.
The Maryland Jockey Club instituted the policy after consulting with several federal and local agencies, including Homeland Security and the FBI.