Preakness Stakes Traditions

By Cindy Pierson Dulay, About.com Guide

Created by Tiffany and Company in 1860 as a trophy for the now defunct Woodlawn Racing Association, the Woodlawn Vase stands 34 inches tall and weighs 29 pounds, 12 ounces and is presented each year to the winning Preakness owner. In 1983, its value was assessed at $1 million which easily makes it the most valuable trophy in American sports.

Until 1953, winners were awarded possession of the vase until the following Preakness. That all changed when A. G. Vanderbilt's Native Dancer won it but his wife did not want to take on the immense responsibility of keeping the solid silver vase safe. Now the winning owner is awarded a $30,000 sterling silver replica while the original is on display at The Baltimore Museum of Art and brought to Pimlico under guard for the annual running of the Preakness.

Kentucky Derby Traditions
Preakness Traditions
Belmont Stakes Traditions

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• The Woodlawn Vase
• The Black-Eyed Susan Blanket
• The Winner's Circle
• Painting the Weather Vane
• The Alibi Breakfast
• The Traditional Drink

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