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A Bleak Sneak Preak(ness)

preakness
BALTIMORE - MAY 17: Race fans stand in the infield before the 133rd Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course May 17, 2008 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

Each May, right after the end of finals, hoards of Penn students gallop south to Baltimore, Maryland for the Preakness Stakes.

The second leg in the Triple Crown Series, this race attracts not only the Kentucky Derby Winner but also thousands of college students looking to get so drunk they forget how little they care about horse racing or big hats.

But according to Maryland Jockey Club president and CEO Tom Chuckas, this tradition has seen its last year.

Today, Chuckas announced a ban on fun carry-in drinks for 2009. This May 16th, beer will be sold for $3.50 and coolers will be strictly prohibited. Well, at least musical entertainment will be provided (ZZ Top and Buckcherry).

"It's time for our public infield customers to enjoy a new way to party," says Chuckas.

"Wow, maybe he's right," says not one single college student.

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