Prominent leaders in business, culture and politics to experience Danish hospitality and know how in exclusive setting at storied race

Baltimore, MD (Tuesday, February 7, 2012) — The Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) is pleased to announce the selection of Denmark as the Host Nation of the 2012 International Pavilion at the Preakness Stakes. With this designation, the Embassy of Denmark and Ambassador Peter Taksoe-Jensen will serve as Honorary Hosts welcoming distinguished guests and dignitaries to historic Pimlico Race Course for the annual running of the Preakness Stakes. 

“In just two short years, The International Pavilion has become the premier destination at Pimlico on Preakness Day and we are delighted to partner with the Embassy of Denmark and Ambassador Taksoe-Jensen in bringing the international community to the annual running of the Preakness,” said Tom Chuckas, Maryland Jockey Club president of the Maryland Jockey Club.

Building on the successes of the 2010 and 2011 International Pavilion, hosted respectively by the Embassy of Spain and Ambassador Jorge Dezcallar, followed by the Embassy of Mexico and Ambassador Sarukhan, the 2012 International Pavilion will showcase the cultural richness, vast traditions and delicacies of Denmark in a setting truly fitting for the “Sport of Kings”.

“I am proud and excited about this opportunity for Denmark to showcase our country, our culture, and our business strengths at this historic event. Our goal is to make the International Pavilion the shiniest element of the “middle jewel” of the Triple Crown...at the Preakness Stakes,” stated Ambassador Taksoe-Jensen.

The International Pavilion is an “invitation only” hospitality destination catering to prominent leaders in business, culture and politics. Each year a different country is selected to serve as the Host Nation of the International Pavilion, with its respective Ambassador serving as Honorary Host. As such, the chosen embassy is accorded the opportunity to promote its culture, cuisine, and business in a relaxed environment that encourages cooperation and conviviality.

The 137^th running of the Preakness Stakes (G1) will take place Saturday, May 19.

About the Maryland Jockey Club

The Maryland Jockey Club was founded in 1743, and thus today is the oldest sporting association in the North America. After 269 years it remains the corporate name of Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, which opened in 1870, and is home to the Preakness® Stakes, the middle jewel in horse racing's famed Triple Crown. For more information on the Preakness, visit www.preakness.com.