After Super Saver and Calvin Borel captured the Roses in the Kentucky Derby, who wouldn't want to place a wager on the Preakness Stakes-- the Second Jewel of the famed Triple Crown? The obvious question is "Where do I go to do so?"
4) The Couch: By far the easiest thing to do is to just open up an online account with TwinSpires.com, YouBet.com or TVG and watch NBC's live coverage from Pimlico Racecourse in Baltimore.
The advantages: You don't have to put on pants, and the beer is cheap.
The disadvantages: You don't have to put on pants, and you are all alone, loser. This is the Triple Crown; you need to get out of the house! After all, the people in the Pimlico Infield are drinking bottomless mugs of beer. Shouldn't you at least try to party a little?
3) Your Cousin Vinnie and his friends: Okay, so this might be a slight exaggeration, but everybody knows somebody who knows somebody... Many times there are professional bookmakers available in local taverns who can take care of your wagering needs.
The advantages: Convenience is primary. Sometimes, they even offer credit.
The disadvantages: The payouts are generally lower, often times capped at 20-1 (or so I've heard). Sometimes, they even break kneecaps. Oh, and the law tends to not look very kindly on such activity.
2) Indiana Downs OTB: Indiana Downs has operated at off-track wagering, simulcasting facility in Clarksville since 2004. A great opportunity to place a quick wager on the Preakness and other races around the country with a real live mutuel clerk.
The advantages: Real live mutuel clerks! Convenience to folks in southern Indiana and a handicapper's atmosphere. Cold drinks. Almost like being at the track without the long lines.
The disadvantages: It's not the track, and you cannot wager on the card from the fabled Twin Spires.
1) Churchill Downs: With the warm sunny weather and the $100,000-added Matt Winn Stakes, going to the "World's Most Legendary Racetrack" today sounds like a great idea. Besides, doesn't it just make sense to be at the host of the First Jewel of the
Triple Crown if you can't be in Baltimore?
The advantages: It is the track, and while it's just after 2:15pm as this is written there is still a lot of live racing before the simulcast of the Preakness. If the last time you were there was Derby Week, beer is cheaper. If the last time you were there was last year, you still owe yourself a mint julep.
The disadvantages: Your cousin Vinnie might be displeased that you chose not to consult him first.
