HANA Track Ratings - #11 Tampa Bay Downs

The Horseplayers Association of North America has rated Tampa Bay Downs 11th out of the 65 tracks studied in North America.

Cumulative Takeout Score: 1.89
Field Size: 9.4
Wager Variety Score: 1.0
Best Bet: Above average pick 3's and 4's

Total HANA Score: 2.161

Rank: 11

Tampa Bay Downs scored fairly well across the board in our rating system. In addition it should be noted that like Fair Grounds, their website is excellent as a resource for horseplayers.

Richard Bauer is retired from a career in software and has for years been involved in the game as a player, an outspoken one at times. Of late he is experiencing what many horseplayers are in terms of the state of the game. "I've been on a reduced [betting] scale in racing the past 3 years as drug issues and ADW wars have made me very wary about players' status in the game."

However, Tampa has given him an outlet, and he chooses to support the venue and the pools. "I first played Tampa in '03 when looking for a track to play on Tuesdays. Subsequently I went in Dec '04 after relocating in the eastern US and have been a regular visitor there each winter since then. I just returned from 3 weeks there on the 18th and already have reservations for the whole month of January in 2010. Tampa has reduced takeout on a variety of bets since '04. They have exceptionally friendly employees and staff; and, management is accessible to discuss player issues. Valet parking is still only $5. What's not to like?"

When a discerning horseplayer like Rich chooses you, we think you must be doing something right.