1927 - Tampa Downs reopens, but for only nine days. 1932 - Desha Breckinridge and Major Thomas McDowell of Lexington oversee repairs and restoration of the facility. Conflicts caused the cancellation of the meet. 1934 - Tampa Turf and Field Club was formed, and headed by Hal Thompson. The track reopens as Tampa Downs.
Inadequate handles force the meeting to close after only six days.
1946 - Sunshine Park Racing Association is formed and provides 650 stalls. A 1947 season is approved by referendum. 1947 - The modern era begins, and Sunshine Park runs it inaugural meet. The first official tote board was in operation, an electric starting gate and photo finish camera were installed. 1950 - Legendary sportswriters including Grantland Rice, Red Smith and Arthur Daley were regulars at the track, as they traveled south to cover the baseball spring season.