NEW YORK - NBC Sports' first telecast of the Preakness drew the race's highest preliminary rating since 1990. The telecast drew a 6.0 overnight rating and a 15 share. That was 30 percent higher than last year's 5.3 rating and 13 share on ABC, and the best since the 1990 Preakness had a 7.8 rating and 20 share. Overnight ratings measure the 49 largest TV markets, covering about 60 percent of the country. Each rating point represents 1 percent of the TV homes in those markets.
Share refers to the percentage of televisions in use tuned to a program.
The Preakness was followed by an NBA playoff game between San Antonio and Los Angeles that had a 7.0 rating and a 15 share. Shop for gear through our NWsource and REI Gear Shop . NWsource Gear Shop Pack in more with rooftop racks and cargo carriers . Summer Footwear Sandals, mocs, hiking boots and more .