Harness: Details released on COVID-19 protocols at Lexington Selected Yearling Sale

Officials of the Lexington Selected Sales Co. have announced COVID-19 protocols for both consignors and those planning to attend the upcoming yearling and mixed sales, to be held Oct. 5-10 at Fasig-Tipton's Newtown Paddocks in Lexington, Kentucky.

"We're fortunate to follow Fasig-Tipton's own successful Thoroughbred yearling sale, which was held here Sept. 9 and 10," sale co-manager David Reid said. "Both Randy (co-manager Randy Manges) and I were in attendance and able to see firsthand the measures they had in place. Everyone adhered to the regulations and the yearling shows and the sale went very smoothly."

Reid said the Thoroughbred sale utilized two large tents for expanded seating and gathering areas, and those will be kept in place. They are located alongside the pavilion and in the lot behind the back walking ring.

The company’s statement regarding protocols follows:

In advance of the upcoming Lexington Selected Yearling and Mixed Sales, the company has announced the following COVID-19 protocols will be in place in accordance with Kentucky regulations:

-Screening measures, including temperature checks and health screening questions, will be in place to gain admittance to the sales grounds for all staff, participants, and attendees.

-Cloth face coverings are required in accordance with U.S. CDC recommendations.

-Participants will not be allowed to congregate. At least six feet of distance must be maintained between people.

-Seating capacity in the sales pavilion will be reduced below 60 percent of capacity. Buyers are encouraged to enter the arena just before they are ready to bid on a horse.

-No food service will be available in the sales pavilion. Food service will be available in the restaurant and back bar.

-Valet parking will not be available.

-Increased cleaning and disinfection procedures will be implemented, with regular sanitation of high touch surfaces at least every two hours.

-Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is recommended for all attendees.

-Sales company management requests that anyone showing symptoms of the virus - or if they are not feeling well - not attend the sale, and stay home.

The health and safety of sale participants is of paramount importance. These guidelines are intended as a supplement to assist with safe operations during the COVID-19 pandemic and are subject to change.

Those who would like further information are asked to call Randy Manges (859-255-8431) at the sales company's Lexington office.

--edited release (Lexington Selected Sales Co.)--