When Samy Camacho found himself without a mount for Wednesday's eighth race at Tampa Bay Downs, he had no hesitation in taking on Velocissima, a long-shot at 29-1. This decision was not just a random choice; it was a gesture of gratitude towards Rafael Romero, who had supported him back in 2012 and played a significant role in his early career. The 5-year-old mare, which had last won in September 2023, delivered a remarkable performance under Camacho's guidance. With a high-quality ride, she defeated fellow long shot Lovielee by two lengths, securing Camacho's fourth victory on the opening-day card. Despite Velocissima's recent mediocre form, the $60.60 win payoff was a testament to Camacho's skills. Under the watchful eye of agent Mike Moran, Camacho is on a mission to claim a fifth consecutive Oldsmar riding title and a sixth overall, tying the record set by Daniel Centeno and Mike Manganello. He is brimming with confidence and believes that with his dedication and hard work, no one can easily dethrone him.

Camacho's Early Career and Gratitude

Camacho's journey in the racing world began with the help of Rafael Romero. Back in 2012, Romero gave him the opportunity to start his career, and Camacho has never forgotten that. His success today is a result of the foundation laid during those early years. He is grateful for Romero's support and is always ready to return the favor. This sense of gratitude has driven him to achieve great things in the racing arena.In addition to his gratitude, Camacho's hard work and dedication are evident. He follows a strict routine of eating healthy and going to the gym every day to keep himself in top shape. This discipline has helped him perform at his best on the racetrack.

Victories on Tampa Bay Downs

Camacho's victories on Tampa Bay Downs have been nothing short of remarkable. His first win came with Team Equistaff's 3-year-old filly, Goddess Minerva, in the first race. This was a significant moment for him as it put him on the map at the track. He followed it up with victories in the third and seventh races, aboard Feast and Bounteous respectively. These wins showcased his versatility as a jockey and his ability to handle different types of horses.In the co-featured sixth race, Takeschargesmiling and jockey Pablo Morales put on an exciting stretch duel and emerged victorious. The 3-year-old gelding completed the six-furlong distance in 1:10.46, showing his speed and determination.

Go Charlie Go's Maiden Victory

Go Charlie Go, bred and owned by Ocala horseman Kenneth Manness, achieved his first victory in the second race. Manness, who usually doesn't get to run his bred horses due to them being sold before racing, was overjoyed when Go Charlie Go rallied on the outside to win by a half-length. The 4-year-old gelding, who paid $58 as the longest shot in the eight-horse field, completed the 6 1/2-furlong distance in 1:17.90.Hector Diaz Jr. rode Go Charlie Go in his first two starts at Gulfstream Park and showed significant improvement in his second race, finishing fifth. On Wednesday, Diaz kept Go Charlie Go in the clear and outside of the horses, and the horse delivered a solid finishing kick to break his maiden. Manness is confident that Go Charlie Go has a bright future and is already looking forward to seeing him achieve more success.Thoroughbred racing continues on Saturday with a nine-race card, including four turf races. The first post time is 12:32 p.m. EST, and fans can look forward to more exciting races and performances from the talented jockeys like Samy Camacho.