Renovated path leads patrons to Tampa Bay Downs

OLDSMAR — Tampa Bay Downs plans to give its patrons the red-carpet treatment again this year. And this time, it extends outdoors.

Race fans going to the thorough­bred track for opening day on Dec. 12 will travel an improved Race Track Road, which for the first time in 84 years is not alongside the oval.

"It's put a whole new perspective on the facility," track spokeswoman Margo Flynn said. "You actually see the race course coming because you're on an elevated boulevard. It is quite dramatic."

A construction project that began a year ago provides more safety and conforms to the area's growth. The wider Race Track Road is now west of the track, featuring entrances and exits to the Downs' south and west (with a traffic light). A northbound exit also exists.

"We lost some parking spots to the west. However, we have opened up more on the south end," Flynn said. "We have initiated some golf cart transport to bring people from farther away, and on big days we're actually investigating some trolley rentals."

There are other changes. The Downs is reducing takeouts on five wagers: exacta from 21.5 to 20.5 percent; and Pick-3, Pick-4, Super High-5 and Pick-6, all from 20 to 19 percent. There will be some lower concession prices and a new grandstand bakery. Renovations were made in the barn area's track rooms.

MORE DOWNS: Flynn said three-time leading trainer Jamie Ness will return, but 2005-06 champion Kirk Ziadie will not. Ness was in the midst of a probe in April regarding unmarked substances found in his Oldsmar stable. The Florida Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering hasn't announced results of the findings. Ziadie was banned from Churchill Downs Inc.-owned tracks in August after a 60-day, medication-related suspension and $1,000 fine by the FDPMW. "Ness has been issued (40) stalls," Flynn said. "I don't know any more than that. (The investigation) is a state issue so they don't report to us. Ziadie did not apply for stalls; we didn't deny him." Said Ness: "I am in the dark about (the probe) as much as you. I have no idea what's going on. I am just happy to be back at my home track and looking forward to another successful season."

GREYHOUNDS: Career Goals' first stakes win in the $20,000 Fall Juvenile Stakes on Nov. 14 at Derby Lane made Lester Raines the only operation to win a stakes in the past five meets at St. Petersburg. "It's an honor," kennel manager-trainer Ken Lesperance said. "I'm a first for something (for) once." Career Goals will prepare for the $75,000 660-Yard Challenge, beginning Dec. 5.

THANKSGIVING SCHEDULE: Derby Lane will not have live racing Thursday, but will be open for simulcast wagering and poker. On Friday, it will host a matinee-evening doubleheader. Also on Thanksgiving, the Downs will be closed and Tampa Greyhound Track will be open.