WASHINGTON, Feb. 6 (UPI) -- Outside water and alcohol will be prohibited at Pimlico, the site of the second jewel in horse racing's Triple Crown, The Washington Times reported.
The move could put a damper on the Baltimore course's infield party, but Maryland Jockey Club president Tom Chuckas told the newspaper that the race course has "a new way to party."
"In this year of change it is now time to transform the Preakness infield experience," Chukas said.
The changes for 2009, designed to limit the number of injuries, will include the addition of bands ZZ Top and Buckcherry.
"The alcohol policy is just one of many changes that are going to happen in a couple days," Mike Gathagan , the club's vice president of communications, said.
In 2007, at least 55 spectators were transported to the hospital from Preakness. In 2006, there were 42, and 55 in 2004. The injuries included broken ankles and legs, head or face injuries, cuts and chest pain.
