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Ravens WR Odell Beckham Jr. Delivers 'Riders Up' Call at Preakness Stakes

New Baltimore Ravens receiver Odell Beckham Jr. helped kick off the festivities at the Preakness Stakes on Saturday

Jon Alfano

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Baltimore Ravens receiver Odell Beckham Jr. seems to be adjusting well to life in the Charm City. 

On Saturday, Beckham had a big role to play at the 148th running of the Preakness Stakes, one of Baltimore's longest-running traditions. The receiver was the one to deliver the famous "Riders Up" call for jockeys to mount their horse just before the race begins.

"Ladies and gentlemen, it's finally time for the 148th running of the Preakness, from my new home," Beckham said. "To the City of Baltimore, to all the fans watching around the world, riders up!"

Surprisingly, Beckham isn't the first football star to give such a call this year. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes did the same at the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 6.

The Preakness Stakes, which had its first running in 1873, is held annually on the third Saturday in May. Pimlico Race Course, the venue for the event, is less than 10 miles away from M&T Bank Stadium, where the Ravens play their home games.

National Treasure, who entered the race with 4-1 odds to win, won the 2023 edition of the event. Beckham and the Ravens will look have plenty of success of their own in the upcoming season, but taking part in one of Baltimore's traditions is a good way to prepare.

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Jon Alfano
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