Bad weather prompts Tampa Bay Downs to cancel Friday card

Racing and training at Tampa Bay Downs have been canceled for Friday because of heavy rain and anticipation of high winds in the Tampa Bay area, according to a release from the track.

The track will remain open for simulcast wagering and poker.

“We’re disappointed to lose a day of racing, but our No. 1 priority is the safety of our horses, jockeys and fans,” said Peter Berube, the track’s vice president and general manager. “Proper track maintenance is virtually impossible with the type of weather we’ve been getting.”

Racing is scheduled to resume on Saturday.

Berube said the lost date could be made up later in the meeting or by adding races to existing dates.