Tampa Bay Downs: Jockeys refuse to ride in two turf races

OLDSMAR, Fla. - The final two turf races on Friday's program at Tampa Bay Downs were moved to the main track after the riders, citing several "trouble spots" on the Tampa turf course, refused to ride, according to track spokesperson Margo Flynn.

Originally three turf races were scheduled on Friday’s program, the fifth, seventh, and ninth.

The fifth was run over the firm course but it was later announced that the ninth would be moved from the turf to the main track and that the seventh would remain on the grass. Following the sixth race, however, riders informed management they would not ride the seventh, according to Flynn.

According to Flynn, as of late Friday afternoon there were no plans to make any changes to Saturday's card, which includes three turf races.