One Year After Paying Out Nearly $18,500,000, Revered Equestrian Event in Florida Is Set to Grow by an Unbelievable Amount

Tampa Bay Downs is gearing up for a record-breaking equestrian season as the stakes are raised—literally! This fall meet at Tampa Bay Downs is about to witness a spectacular boost in purses, with an impressive $5.5 million windfall allocated from the state of Florida. The announcement came from none other than the track’s vice president and general manager, Peter Berube, who unveiled the exciting news on August 1.

This significant injection of funds will elevate purses for all non-stakes races, spanning from lower-level claiming events to thrilling allowance races. The update brings exciting news and will be applicable to multiple events.

How much will be the increased purse?

This significant injection of funds will elevate purses for all non-stakes races, spanning from lower-level claiming events to thrilling allowance races. Among the exciting updates, maiden special weight races will experience a substantial jump, with purses soaring from last season’s figure of $27,000 to a generous $35,000 (including an additional $3,000 in Florida Owners’ Awards funds). As for higher-level allowance events, they too will receive a well-deserved bump, rising to $36,500 from the previous $28,500. With average daily overnight purses projected to reach a whopping $200,000 per day, and the bottom purse set at an enticing $17,000, the racing season promises to be packed with thrilling competitions and high-stakes races.

The generous funds are part of a visionary $55 million tax package, successfully clearing both chambers of the Florida legislature in May and receiving the seal of approval from Governor Ron DeSantis. This strategic bill aims to revitalize and bolster Florida’s horse racing industry, directing financial support to Gulfstream Park, the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association, as well as tax credits to cover the expenses of Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority assessments for the tracks. According to a Bloodhorse report, Tampa Bay Downs’ vice president and general manager, Peter Berube said, “The purse increases should enable us to retain all of our top stables and bring in some exciting new players for our fans and bettors to follow, which will increase wagering and lead to more opportunities for expansion.” However, this was not all, as there was an additional treat for this season.

Additional $500,000 in equestrian purse money

Florida-bred horses will revel in the spotlight, as they will be competing for an enticing $500,000 in additional purse money from the Florida-Bred Incentive Fund. Maiden special weight and allowance races will offer Florida-breds the chance to vie for an extra $12,500, granted to the top-three finishers, thus elevating the total purse for such prestigious races to a starting amount of $47,500. While the stakes schedule remains unchanged from last season, featuring 26 exhilarating stakes races with a total purse of $3.46 million, all eyes will be on the highly-anticipated 44th edition of the illustrious $400,000 Tampa Bay Derby (G3).

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As the track gears up for its 98th anniversary season, excitement and anticipation fill the air. It promises to be an unforgettable racing experience for participants and fans alike. With soaring purses, exhilarating races, and a celebration of Florida’s equine stars, the 2023-24 racing season at Tampa Bay Downs is primed for greatness.

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