NYRA secures COVD-19 antibody tests for employees, backstretch workers

As the New York Racing Association awaits word from state officials about the resumption of live racing on this circuit, the company announced Thursday it has partnered with Northwell Health to offer COVID-19 antibody testing for NYRA employees and backstretch workers.

The tests were to be administered Saturday between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. in the Belmont clubhouse. Backstretch employees were required to sign up for the tests on Thursday and Friday and were to be notified Friday night at what time they would be tested.

Antibody tests are able to determine if a person has previously had coronavirus and thus would have a certain level of immunity from getting it again.

Medical personnel from Northwell will perform the tests, and results will be communicated within two days of the test date.

“We would like to thank Northwell Health for their commitment to expanding the availability of antibody testing across New York and right here at Belmont Park,” NYRA CEO and president Dave O’Rourke said in a press release. “This broad testing program will provide additional insight allowing us to more fully understand how COVID-19 has impacted our community. Going forward, this is a positive step in NYRA’s overall testing program as we work toward our goal of providing universal access to both diagnostic testing and antibody testing.”

There are approximately 585 people who live and work on the backstretch at Belmont Park and a total of 800 backstretch workers. Since March 19, there have been 67 positive coronavirus cases among backstretch employees, 20 of which are current active positives. Thirteen of those 20 are in isolation at Belmont, seven off track. There have been 47 individuals who have completed quarantine, tested negative, and returned to work. Additionally, one person, Martin Zapata, died from coronavirus.

The NYRA suspended racing operations March 19 and through this Sunday 34 cards have been canceled between Aqueduct and Belmont Park.

In April, NYRA submitted a 19-page plan to resume racing at Belmont without fans and restricted employee access with strict protocols including the wearing of facial coverings. NYRA said it would plan to add just 60 employees to conduct racing.

Belmont Park is located in Nassau County, N.Y., one of the hardest-hit areas in the country. Through Tuesday, there were 38,587 cases in the county and 2004 deaths.