Excitement Building Ahead Of Preakness Stakes

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- We're just hours away from the 141st running of the Preakness Stakes! Excitement is building throughout the area but it's more than just horse racing: officials are expecting a record crowd, which means big business for Baltimore.

Rick Ritter has more on the anticipation that's growing by the hour.

Some say the crowds Friday are the largest they've seen in years for Black-Eyed Susan Day, but everyone is already looking ahead to Saturday---and, despite the weather, they're expecting record numbers.

It's the sound of royalty and the anticipation of winning that packs Pimlico with some of the best-dressed for Black-Eyed Susan Day.

"It's just exciting. It's just the best," said Betsy Fink.

With just hours to go until Preakness, thousands are in on the early action and showing off their finest attire.

"I love the horses. I love the crowd, the energy," said Donna Manuel.

"I put some feathers on last night, some glue," said Christine Queen.

Excitement is paving the way for even higher stakes come Saturday.

"When you win, you're hooked," Fink said.

Even though the weather is questionable for Saturday, officials say rain or shine, they're still expecting big numbers.

Last year's Preakness drew 132,000 people and banked an economic impact of $34 million.

"People are here, people are exploring this city, despite some of the challenges we've had over the past year," said Mike Evitts, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore.

Evitts says it's crucial for businesses and exposure Baltimore can't buy.

"It's a regional event that is going to be watched internationally and that kind of exposure is just icing on the cake in addition to the ticket sales we're going to see in Baltimore," Evitts said.