Tampa Bay Downs Set to Feature Thrilling Juvenile Races on December 7

Tampa Bay Downs Anticipates Exciting Juvenile Races on December 7

Tampa Bay, Florida – The spotlight will shine on 2-year-old thoroughbreds at Tampa Bay Downs this weekend as nine races will feature these promising juveniles on December 7. Among the highlights of the day are the prestigious Inaugural Stakes and Sandpiper Stakes, each offering a purse of $125,000. Both races are set for six furlongs, promising a thrilling showcase of speed and agility.

Rising Star: Donut God

One of the standout competitors is Donut God, trained by Brian Lynch. This colt made a significant impression in his lone start, which he won decisively. Despite his limited racing experience, he has already captured attention as a notable contender, recently emerging as the ninth favorite in the Kentucky Derby Future Wager with 52-1 odds.

Lynch, who has previously celebrated victories with runners like Classic Causeway, has high hopes for Donut God. “He’s coming into the Inaugural with a reputation. Time will tell, but he has always been a professional little horse,” Lynch commented. “He’s been very precocious, fast from the gate, and a quick learner. He’s just real smart.” Despite being on the smaller side at 15 hands and 3, Lynch believes Donut God is ready to tackle the competition, even though many of his adversaries have more racing experience.

Field of Competitors

Donut God will be ridden by leading jockey Samy Camacho, who has a strong track record, having won three of the past four Inaugural races. He will start from post 5 in a packed field. The main competitor expected to challenge Donut God is Naughty Rascal, the second choice with 3-1 odds. This colt, trained by Gerald Bennett, has an impressive record of 3-for-4 with two stakes wins under his belt, both secured at Gulfstream Park.

Another noteworthy entrant is Tapirs Valor, currently listed as the third choice with odds of 5-1. After breaking his maiden during his second start at Keeneland, he has since attracted strong connections with Runnymoore Racing and trainer Tim Hamm.

The field also includes the Gary Contessa-trained gelding, Epitaph, who enters the race with 6-1 odds. This depth in the competition is anticipated to make for a thrilling afternoon of racing.

What to Expect This Saturday

Fans of horse racing and the sporting community can look forward to a packed schedule filled with exciting races. Tampa Bay Downs has established itself as a hub for showcasing the skills of young horses, and the Dec. 7 event promises to live up to that reputation.

As the countdown to race day continues, all eyes will be on these young competitors as they look to make their mark in the racing world. The Inaugural Stakes not only highlights emerging talent like Donut God but also the growing enthusiasm surrounding juvenile racing in Florida.

With these talented horses and experienced trainers combined, the racing event at Tampa Bay Downs this Saturday is poised to be an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.