Tampa Bay Downs cancels Friday's races; 'No. 1 priority' safety

Friday’s live racing card and morning training at Tampa Bay Downs have been canceled due to ongoing heavy rain and anticipation of high winds in the Tampa Bay area.

Officials said the track will remain open for simulcast wagering.

“We’re disappointed to lose a day of racing, but our No. 1 priority is the safety of our horses, jockeys and fans,” said Peter Berube, the track’s vice president and general manager. “Proper track maintenance is virtually impossible with the type of weather we’ve been getting.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our fans and look forward to putting on a full 10-race card Saturday, when sunshine is expected to return.”

Berube said there is a possibility the lost date could be made up later in the meeting or by adding races to existing dates.