Tampa Bay Downs: Expert Picks and Predictions for Wednesday’s Opening Day
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Tampa Bay Downs kicks off its 2023-2024 season on Wednesday, November 19, offering a compelling alternative for horse racing enthusiasts as the sport heads into the winter months. According to one seasoned horseplayer, known only as “Mr. Ed,” Tampa Bay Downs stands out as offering the best eastern U.S. racing experience until the 2026 Championship Meet at Gulfstream Park. The track’s appeal lies in its affordability, friendly atmosphere, and a solid “B+ racing product,” making it a favorite among those in the know.
While Saratoga and Keeneland remain top choices for many, Mr. Ed highlights Tampa Bay Downs’ unique advantages. The track boasts free parking, reasonably priced food, and open seating, creating a welcoming environment for all levels of horse racing fans. “Non-wagering dollars go a long way at Tampa Bay,” Mr. Ed noted, emphasizing the value proposition for bettors. With sunshine in the forecast, Wednesday’s opening day promises a pleasant experience for attendees.
Wednesday’s Featured Selections
Mr. Ed has provided exclusive selections for Wednesday’s card, focusing on strategic wagers and promising contenders. Here’s a breakdown of his picks:
Race 1 (12:40 p.m. ET) – $25K Claiming for Fillies and Mares: A Daily Double is recommended with #1 Fabulous Candy (5-2 morning line), ridden by Samuel Marin and trained by Juan Avila, paired with #4 Omikami (3-1) with jockey Gaddiel Martinez and trainer Ralph Baez. A $5 Daily Double is suggested, with additional consideration for horses #7 and #11.
Race 2 (1:10 p.m. ET) – $19K Claiming for Fillies and Mares: Mr. Ed suggests a shot with either #7 The Wild Cat (7-2 morning line) under Ademar Santos, or #11 Queen Atlas (3-1) with Antonio Gallardo. These selections are intended to complete the Daily Double.
Race 3 (1:40 p.m. ET) – $19K Claiming for 3YOs & Up: A $10 win and place wager is advised on #11 Harper’s Afleet (7-2 morning line), ridden by Chris Landeros for trainer Jon Arnett. The horse is described as being “better than these” following a drop in class.
Race 4 (2:10 p.m. ET) – $23K Maiden Claiming for 2YO Fillies: #6 The Gossip (3-1 morning line) is the pick for a $10 win bet, with Samuel Marin riding for trainer Jose Gallegos. The horse is considered ready to break its maiden after showing promise in previous races at Colonial and Delaware.
Race 5 (2:40 p.m. ET) – $23,300 Claiming for Fillies and Mares: An Exacta Box for $5 is recommended with a trio of horses: #1 Attending (5-1 morning line) with Samuel Marin and Kathleen O’Connell, #4 A Great Date (6-1) with Eddie Gonzalez and Jose D’Angelo, and #9 Sliver of Sunshine (8-1) with Antonio Gallardo and Kathleen Demsi.
Races 7-9 (3:40 p.m. ET) – $1 Pick 3: Mr. Ed suggests the following combinations: R7: 2,3,9,10; R8: 1,6,7; R9: 1,2,4,9, for a total cost of $48.
Race 9 (4:40 p.m. ET) – $29K Claiming for 3YOs & Up: A $10 win bet and a $5 Exacta Box (1/2,4,9) are recommended for #1 Eddie The Great (4-1 morning line), ridden by Eddie Gonzalez and trained by Gerald Bennett.
Total Wagers and Saturday’s Outlook
Mr. Ed’s total wagers for Wednesday’s card amount to $168. He will return on Saturday with additional selections for the 9-race card, which is scheduled to begin at 12:33 p.m. ET. With a focus on value and informed picks, Mr. Ed aims to guide horseplayers through the Tampa Bay Downs season. .
