Tip of the Hat
 

I know we as horseplayers are always talking about the only thing the tracks do to us is gouge us. Well, I received a letter yesterday with a VIP ticket from Tampa Bay Downs. It says we would like to invite you and 5 friends to the track between now and Feb 25 excluding Feb 10. The VIP ticket includes.

1. General Admission.
2. Box Seats.
3. Racing Program
4. Each guest gets a 2.00 voucher.

Being it is my home track I am glad they're trying at least.

Bob

I love Tam. Great little facility with good size fields and some good prices. The only bad thing I can say about it is they need more tellers. You either have to get your bet in early or bet through your computer. Not a lot of plugin outlets either so an extra battery can be a bonus.


Check out the little nook & cranny between the clubhouse and the upper stands. Go out the clubhouse and down the second steps, also refreshment stand there and generally the teller is much less busy there. This area is like an entrance from the stands back into the building with only 5 or so steps. From there you can watch it on TV or go back out to the stands for a great view of the whole track which is above the finish line.


They do a good job there and last year reduced some take outs to spur business. Thats very good for us players. You can usually catch Shades in that area before going down the second steps. Nice guy who takes time to chat with the customers. Had a killer day there about two weeks ago.
Have a ball and good skill.



Mitch44

Thanks
 

Mitch, I don't go there much anymore as I go to Derby Lane. I do have friends coming in next week so I will take them there.

Bob

Nice
 

Hey Bob

That sounds like a super deal,
Have fun, I hope you take home some nice dough too.
Bill

Thanks
 

Bill, who knows maybe they will attract a few race fans with this promo


Bob

Bob I hope you have a great outing and you win some $$$$$$ They have a buffet there that's decent but you have to arrange for it ahead of time.


I get over there about once a year but bet it through TwinSpires frequently, about 1 1/2 hours from me..


Mitch44

Speaking of Tampa...
 

My dear wife is looking at warm weather destinations this Spring. Tampa is on her candidate list.

Outside of the visittampabay & visitflorida & tripadvisor etc websites, anybody got any other local knowledge tips?

Preferred airport to fly in? Best places to stay? Places gotta see?

Thanks in advance to any and all input.

Tampa has a airport. There's lot to see and do along the west coast. In Sarasota is the Barnum & Bailey circus museum. Manatees not far from Tampa and a place loaded with Greek restaurants where they fish for sponges. Lots of beaches such as Clearwater not far from Tampa and other places up and down the coast. Fishing etc.


A place I like is called Sanibel & Captiva Islands, expensive to stay on the island but there are several hotels near the bridge before crossing to the island that are much more reasonable. From Fort Meyers you can take a ferry to Key West which takes about 3 hours for perhaps a couple day stay.


Rent a car and getting around is easy.
Mitch44

Thanks for taking the time Mitch. Local info is always helpful.

I'll be happy to get you back if you ever need intel on East Central Indiana.

Actually, I'd probably start with a discussion on wouldn't your time be better spent on other endeavors!?

Thanks again

Tell the monkey lost says "Hey"