Endless beer supply fills infield for Preakness

BALTIMORE (AP) -Enticed by the prospect of refilling their beer mugs from morning until dusk, thousands flocked to the Pimlico infield for the Preakness.

One year ago, after Pimlico officials ended the practice of bringing beer to the event, the infield was relatively empty. Fans still can't tote their own beer, but on Saturday they were given the option of spending an extra $20 to have an unlimited supply of cold brew.

The ploy - combined with racy commercials with the theme “Get Your Preak On” - resulted in a noticeable increase in attendance in the infield.

Many of those patrons noted that the infield in the past was too dangerous because people were getting hurt by flying beer cans.

The sale of the mugs was halted at 11,000.