Jockeys Jorge A. Vargas, Jr. and Jalon Samuel have tested positive for COVID-19 and will be off their mounts for the remainder of the weekend, the New York Racing Association, Inc. announced Friday.
All members of the NYRA jockey colony are vaccinated and adhere to established protocols.
Vargas, Jr. rode races on Thursday, Dec. 30 and sought testing Friday after developing mild symptoms overnight. Vargas, Jr. did not experience symptoms during Thursday's card.
Samuel had no mounts during Thursday's card and was not on-site at Aqueduct. He sought testing after developing mild symptoms on Thursday.
NYRA follows the most updated federal and state guidance regarding contact tracing, testing, required isolation, and quarantine. Accordingly, Vargas and Samuel will be permitted to return to competition on Thursday, Jan. 6 if they are asymptomatic.
In accordance with New York City requirements, anyone seeking to enter Aqueduct Racetrack in any capacity must demonstrate proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Facemasks are required at all times on NYRA property.
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