Preakness hoping for record crowd, despite Baltimore unrest

BALTIMORE (AP) The general manager of the Maryland Jockey Club anticipates a record crowd at the Preakness next Saturday, despite recent unrest and rioting in Baltimore.

Salvatore Sinatra says, ''Sales have been very strong. Hopefully the weather holds, and we will probably break a record.''

Baltimore was engulfed in violence last week amid protests over the death of Freddie Gray, a black man who died from injuries he received while in police custody.

As a result, security at Pimlico Race Course has been ''beefed up,'' according to Sinatra.

He says, ''We're going to make sure our fans are safe. I don't anticipate any problems.''

Rock bands are expected to perform the day before the Preakness and on the day of the race. Sinatra says no acts or sponsors have withdrawn.