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The Alibi Breakfast is a Pimlico tradition dating back to the 1930's, when trainers and owners would gather at the old Clubhouse and swap stories over coffee with each other and the press. Some of the best racing stories ever to be printed came from these breakfasts. Nowadays the Breakfast gives the connections and media a chance to celebrate the Preakness and give their race predictions.
Bob Baffert was asked by master of ceremonies Chris Lincoln, what three alibis he would have if War Emblem lost on Saturday. "Well, the first alibi would be, 'The bastards got me.' My second alibi would be, 'I *told* Victor this colt couldn't rate!' And my third alibi would be, 'I knew there was a reason we got him so cheap.'"
D. Wayne Lukas said about his 30-1 longshot Table Limit, "I've won a lot of races putting a horse where he doesn't belong." He added that Table Limit is being targeted for the Belmont.
Ken McPeek, when asked how Harlan's Holiday lost the Derby, answered with "No pace. What if I told you I'm not going to need an alibi this weekend."
John Ward Jr., trainer of Booklet, said, "I've got Bob Baffert looking over his shoulder, and I've got Wayne Lukas liking to have me around. But the best part of the day is Kenny McPeek offered to pay my way home with my horse if I would set the pace. So, essentially I must be everybody's best friend till they get across the finish line because it's going to be only me."
Before the breakfast, we visited the Stakes Barn to see what the Preakness horses were up to.
War Emblem walking the shedrow to cool off.
Booklet getting a bath after his work.
Harlan's Holiday was out for a bit of sun and some grass.
U S S Tinosa enjoying a bit of hay in his stall in the Stakes Barn.
Easyfromthegitgo was watching all the people walk by.
The Woodlawn Vase (left) is the most valuable trophy in American sports. It 34 inches high, weigh 29 lbs. 12 ounces, and was last apparaised for $1 million.
The lawn jockey by the Stakes Barn (right) is painted with the last Preakness winner's colors.
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