While the second leg of the American triple crown is being decided at Pimlico, in Maryland, the gates will be thrown open at Keeneland for racegoers to enjoy a telecast of the classic, and feasting on crab cakes, barbeque, plus the official drink of the Preakness, “Black Eyed Susan.”

All three placegetters in the Kentucky Derby, winner Pharoah, Firing Line and Dortmund, are expected to run, with the Derby winner, Pharoah, a warm favourite.

Wagering windows will open at 8am with the first at Pimlico, schedule for 10.30am, and the Preakness to be decided at 6.18pm, admission is free.

Keeneland had a similar day for the Kentucky Derby, a crowd of just over 20,000 poured $1.080 million into the tote facility.