Most people in the racing world are aware that standardbred, thoroughbred and quarter-horse racing is conducted in the state of Florida. Although, how many people were aware that 'trottingbred' races occur within the Sunshine State?
As a report by The Tampa Tribune explains, trottingbred races take place every Sunday afternoon at the Pasco Trotting and Pacing Association-maintained Sunshine Raceway from January through April 1. The track is located just south of Dade City.
The article states that trottingbred racing began in 1960 and became an official registered breed in the '70s. The trottingbred horse is a cross between standardbreds and Hackney, Shetland and Welsh ponies.
The horses race a half-mile and complete two laps of a quarter-mile track.
"Once you start, you don't get it out of your blood," 75-year-old participant Jacqlin Crotty was quoted as saying in the article.
(With files from The Tampa Tribune)