Tampa Bay Downs' Festival Preview Day 38 presented by Lambholm South on February 10th is a major day of horse racing at Tampa Bay Downs, with implications on the national 3-year-old picture. The racing card afternoon includes three Grade III events, including the Suncoast Stakes which awards points towards "The Road to the Kentucky Derby" for the first four finishers. Also featured is the Lambholm South Endeavour Stakes, run on the grass, as well as the Tampa Bay Stakes. Finishing the card is the Suncoast Stakes, which has produced future Grade I winners.

Here are more details about the four big races coming this weekend!

  • The Suncoast Stakes: $150,000 guaranteed purse, includes $50,000 from FTBOA stakes funds. First four finishers earn points for the road to the Kentucky Oaks. 1800 yards.
  • The Sam F. Davis - Grade III: $250,000 guaranteed purse, includes $50,000 from FTBOA stakes funds. 1 1/16 mile.
  • The Tampa Bay Stakes Grade III: $175,000 guaranteed purse, includes $25,000 from FTBOA stakes funds. 1 1/16 mile on turf.
  • The Lambholm South Endeavour Stakes Grade III: $175,000 guaranteed purse, includes $25,000 from FTBOA stakes fund. 1 1/16 mile on turf.

In addition to this card, Festival Preview Day kicks off the "Live it Up Challenge" Handicapping Contest; a free online promotion featuring a seat at the Daily Racing Form/National Thoroughbred Racing Association Handicapping Championship in Las Vegas, and a cash prize of $2,500. This contest runs through March 25th.

Festival Preview Day starts at 10:30am and runs through 6:00pm on Saturday, February 10. You can "Live it Up at the Downs" and purchase tickets at a variety of locations on the website or at the door, but tickets do sell quickly. 

While you're watching one of the most exciting horse racing event cards of the year, test your luck at the Silks Poker Room. Featuring Texas Hold'em, Omaha and Stud Games while simulcasting races from across the country, The Silks is a great beginning or ending to your Tampa Bay Downs experience. Cash games and tournaments are offered every day, as well as great food and drinks from The Silks Bar and Grill right from the room. It goes deliciously with every value bet... or bluff!

So whether you have a horse in mind or want to spectate on some of the best thoroughbreds in Florida, Tampa Bay Downs' Festival Preview Day is sure to not disappoint. For more information on future events and races, stay connected to 813area and find something fun in your area. From restaurants to bars, there's plenty to pique your interest after an exciting card of horse racing; and don't forget, subscribing is free!