Live racing at Golden Gate Fields will temporarily be suspended, effective Friday, Nov. 13 through Nov. 20, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, it was announced.
“Since Oct. 30, there have been 24 confirmed cases linked to the Berkeley stable area,” a release from Golden Gate read. “All positive cases are overseen by the Berkeley Public Health Division (BPHD) through their case managers, are required to isolate as per BPHD protocols and are not able to return to Golden Gate Fields until health clearance has been provided by BPHD.
During the period of temporary closure, track facilities will undergo thorough cleaning and track-wide COVID-19 testing will be performed for all employees and backstretch workers in the stable area. Upon completion of testing all data will be shared with the BPHD.”
The 1300 horses stabled onsite will continue to receive the daily care and exercise they require.
The California Thoroughbred Trainers sent out a text alert Friday evening which read, “Effective immediately, the backside and grandstand areas are restricted to essential employees ONLY due to COVID protocols. No owners or jockey agents allowed on frontside or backside. Those allowed, please practice social distancing & wear masks. Racing has been canceled thru Sun, 11/15, and GGF will update you as best possible during this ever-changing situation. Entries for Fri, 11/20, will be taken Sat, 11/14.”
It was also announced Friday that, pursuant to new COVID-19 restrictions put in place by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Zia Park's current live racing meet has been suspended through Nov. 30. “Effective Monday, Nov. 16, all non-essential businesses, including horse racing, are required to cease in-person activities until the end of the month,” a release from Zia Park read.
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