Preakness crowd still lower than pre-COVID-19

The crowd at the 148th Preakness Stakes, although slightly larger than last year, still didn't come close to pre-COVID-19 attendance levels. Preakness Day didn't disappoint for those in attendance. But the crowd of 65,000 over two days paled in comparison to the pre-COVID-19 days, when 120,000 or more people packed the stands and infield. Preakness organizers said they are still in the process of improving the experience. That includes shifting the hours of headliner entertainment. There are now many ways to place a bet without even being at the event. Racegoers said they noticed ticket prices have increased. It cost $162 just to get in and up to $756 for a VIP experience.