OLDSMAR, Fla. – Tampa Bay Downs is set to host its highly anticipated Florida Cup Day on Sunday, March 30th, showcasing the best of Florida-bred Thoroughbred racing. This annual event, now in its 22nd edition (with a hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic), celebrates the Sunshine State’s rich history in producing legendary racehorses.
The Florida Cup honors the legacy of Florida-bred champions like Needles, Carry Back, Dr. Fager, and Affirmed, among others.
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The event features six $110,000 stakes races, highlighting various distances and age groups, on both the dirt track and turf course.
The race lineup includes:
- Stonehedge Farm South Sophomore Fillies (3-year-old fillies, 7 furlongs, dirt)
- Equistaff Sophomore Turf (3-year-olds, 1 1/16-mile, turf)
- NYRABETS Sprint (4-year-olds and up, 6 furlongs, dirt)
- ESMARK Turf Classic (4-year-olds and up, 1 1/8-mile, turf)
- Ocala Breeders’ Sales Sophomore (3-year-olds, 7 furlongs, dirt)
- Pleasant Acres Stallions Distaff Turf (fillies and mares 3-year-olds and up, 1 1/16-mile, turf)
Beyond the thrilling races, the event will also feature a pre-race buffet luncheon to honor the horsewomen and horsemen who contribute to Florida’s thriving racing industry.
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Leading up to the event, Tampa Bay Downs highlighted ten of the most memorable moments from previous Florida Cup races, including standout performances by horses like World Approval, It’s Me Mom, and Imperial Hint.
These moments exemplify the high level of competition and excitement the Florida Cup consistently delivers.
Tampa Bay Downs continues its racing schedule with races on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The facility also offers simulcast wagering, poker room action, and golf amenities.
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