To date, Tampa has enjoyed a very strong race meeting. The first 48 days of the season have been exceptional in terms quality and growth of live handle both on and off track. As a result, overnight purses paid are up a respectable 6% over the 2004-05 season, and with several key race days ahead of us, I truly believe that another record meet will be completed on May 7, 2006.

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We implemented the testing so that we could set forth a level playing field for the horsemen and the wagering public and a safe environment for the competing horses and the overall integrity of the sport.

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The additional six-month penalty may seem harsh, but that's the penalty for three violations. Two independent labs confirmed the three positives, which happened on Jan. 27, Jan. 29 and Jan. 31, and the stewards issued their ruling (on Thursday).

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