- it was both reliable and kept the dogs interested in chasing it. The lure at Derby Lane was called 'Hareson Hare' by the race callers. The announcer positions on the track was held by two people, however only one worked the day's races. Jim Peake was the main track announcer from 1995 until the track's closure for live races and performed most of the announcing duties. Evening performances were held every day except for Sunday, and doubleheader (afternoon or matinee and evening performances) races were held on Wednesday and Saturday. TV monitors displayed tote information, weights and post positions, races, results, replays, and photos. The winner's circle was only used for major and stakes races, and weights and post positions were announced and filmed on track. The paddock was only used for dressing and weighing the dogs. The track The track consists of three levels. All 3 offer concessions, the top 2 offering dine-in options, and 1 containing a poker room. The paddock is right of the track and can be viewed by a short walk from the finish line. Serviced and self serviced totes are available on every level. The most notable of tote areas being the one on track level, where the words DERBY LANE are spelled out in neon partnered with a greyhounds stride across the sign. The track has a liquor license. The track was the oldest greyhound racing track in the country, and (according to the SP Times and track relations officials) was one of the few still making money in Florida. Due to competition around the area which includes casino boats, casinos, and horse tracks, Derby Lane has lost some qualities gradually such as a gift shop (lost 2009) a bar (lost 2008) and several other cost-cutting measures have been taken around the track. Turnout, though declining, was boosted by the closing of the second nearest dog track: Tampa Bay Greyhound Track. However, Florida Amendment 13 passed by the voters of that state in 2018, meant the end of greyhound racing in the state. After 95 years, Derby Lane held its last card of races as a series of matinee races on December 27, 2020. Alternate gaming options The track offers simulcast and pari-mutuel wagering on major dog and horse racing, when the participating tracks/ events live performance schedule is applicable. Derby Lane also is home to the Derby Lane Poker Room, where