Horse Racing Odds: Hurricane Milton Damage Recap

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Tampa Bay Downs and Ocala Farms Escape Major Damage from Hurricane Milton

Hurricane Milton landed in Florida as a Category 3 storm on October 9, causing significant disruption across the state. Still, the impact on crucial horse racing facilities was less severe than feared. 

While some areas experienced flooding and damage, Tampa Bay Downs and the Ocala equine region were largely spared from the storm’s worst effects.

Tampa Bay Downs Faces Minor Damage from Hurricane Milton

Tampa Bay Downs, located in Oldsmar, Florida, about 25 miles from downtown Tampa, reported minimal damage despite being in the storm’s path. Before moving inland, Hurricane Milton landed at Siesta Key, about 60 miles south of Tampa. 

Tampa Bay Downs, which operates from November 22 through May 3, was closed for the season, and no horses were on-site during the storm. This spared the track from more significant losses.

The track experienced considerable flooding in its barn area and some power outages, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage immediately. 

According to Margo Flynn, vice president of marketing and publicity at Tampa Bay Downs, the track’s operations, including its simulcasting and poker room, were halted before the storm on October 8. While crews could not enter due to downed power lines and fallen trees, early reports suggest the damage was not catastrophic. 

Offtrack betting fans anticipating the return of live racing at Tampa Bay Downs can expect minimal delays as the track prepares for its upcoming season.

Ocala Horse Farms Report Minimal Damage

The equine region of Ocala, located about 98 miles northeast of Tampa, also largely avoided the brunt of Hurricane Milton. This area, known for its horse breeding and training operations, is vital in the Florida racing industry. Several major farms reported only minor effects from the storm despite heavy rain and some debris.

Bridlewood Farm, one of the major horse farms in the region, reported no significant damage. The farm’s general manager, George Isaacs, explained that the horses were brought inside during the storm and remained safe throughout. After the storm passed, they resumed normal operations. 

Many in the industry, especially those interested in Saratoga betting, will be relieved to hear that Ocala’s facilities remain in good condition, ensuring the continued development of top racing prospects.

Hurricane Milton’s Path Through Florida

After landfall, Hurricane Milton weakened as it moved east across central Florida, passing south of Orlando before heading into the Atlantic. The storm still packed a punch, with reports of power outages affecting around three million homes and businesses. 

Tornadoes spawned by the hurricane caused further destruction, particularly on Florida’s Atlantic coast, where four deaths were reported in St. Lucie County.

In preparation for the storm, Ocala Breeders’ Sales (OBS) increased its October Yearling Sale by a day. Most horses had already been transported off the grounds before the storm arrived. 

Fortunately, the 75 remaining horses were unharmed, and the sales grounds sustained no significant damage. Photos shared by Alicia Hughes, OBS’s director of communications, showed only minor debris and no loss of power. OBS’s quick actions helped ensure the safety of both horses and staff.