Although the opening of the Oklahoma Training Track at Saratoga Race Course was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has recently announced that the track will open to essential personnel starting Tuesday, June 2.
Training to Begin at the Historic Track
In a press release, NYRA noted that after consultation with the New York State Gaming Commission and state and local public health officials, they have, “…implemented a comprehensive set of health and safety protocols designed to protect and mitigate risk for employees, horsemen, backstretch workers and the Saratoga community.”
When the Oklahoma Training Track opens to essential personnel, the following safety measures will be in place:
- All personnel working at the track must test negative for COVID-19 or test positive for COVID-19 antibodies. This applies to local personnel and those arriving from other regions.
- All personnel licensed and approved to be on the property will be required to complete a daily health screening and temperature check conducted by trained EMTs.
- Face masks or coverings and adherence to strict social distancing measures will be mandatory at all times. Masks and personal protective equipment will be provided.
On Tuesday, June 2, the barn area at the track will open to horsemen, and on Thursday, June 4, training for the 2020 meet can begin.
NYRA also emphasized that both the Oklahoma Training Track and the Whitney Viewing Stand will remain closed to owners and the public until further notice. Access will be restricted to essential personnel who have been licensed by NYRA and the NYSGC.
