In the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings last month, a number of security policies will be in effect at Saturday's Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, raceway officials said.
Security agents will be wanding all attendees, with all camera bags, purses and containers entering Pimlico Race Course grounds to be searched upon entry.
Backpacks, duffel bags, coolers and or thermoses will be prohibited.
For the fifth year in a row, attendees are prohibited from bringing their own alcoholic beverages to the infield. Faced with dangerous drunkenness in the past, Pimlico now controls all alcohol sales.
Those in the grandstands will be allowed to bring beverages in clear plastic containers, no larger than 18" by 18". Food must also be in clear containers or clear plastic bags no larger than 12" by 12".
Other items banned from the grandstand, clubhouse and infield include:
- Laser lights or pointers, cameras with lenses more than 6" long, cameras over 35mm, camcorders, tripods, tents, balloons or balls, fireworks, mace or pepper spray, grills,
umbrellas, weapons, wagons, non-folding or folding metal chairs, ladders, scaffolding or other raised devices
Items allowed on the grandstand, clubhouse or infield include:
- Beach blankets (infield only), suntan lotion, beach tote bags, cell phones, tablets, cameras, binoculars, purses and lightweight aluminum or plastic lawn chairs (infield only)
The Preakness Stakes — the second leg of the Triple Crown — will be held May 18 at 4:30 p.m.
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