Yonkers: Antibody testing no longer required for paddock entry

The Standardbred Owners Association of New York is pleased to announce that the MGM Yonkers, Inc. Racing Operations Rider to the MGM Resorts International Seven-Point Safety Plan (the "Rider") has been amended to eliminate the requirement that participants shipping in to Yonkers present a valid positive COVID-19 antibody test in order to gain access to the Yonkers paddock.

Instead, pursuant to the Amended Rider, those participants will be subject to the same onsite screening process applicable to all on-site licensees, which includes a temperature check and the answering of a series of questions regarding their possible exposure to COVID-19 and any symptoms that they may be experiencing. If the screening process clears the participant, that participant will be allowed to enter the paddock and shall proceed directly to the assigned stall(s) (or other designated segregated area(s) for racing and will remain at such stall(s) for the duration of their horse's racing activity that day and until exiting (which exiting shall be as soon thereafter the conclusion of the subject horse(s) race(s) as reasonably practicable).

All those admitted to the paddock will be required to maintain social distancing from other on-site personnel at all times, and the SOANY will be enforcing the social distancing component of the Amended Rider. Masks shall be worn at all times in the paddock, and the previously announced protocols regarding hygiene and other best health practices remain in effect. We thank you in advance for your strict adherence to these important safety protocols as we resume racing at Yonkers Raceway.

Upcoming schedule notes

In an email to the media, SOANY President Joe Faraldo stated that Yonkers will race three days-a-week during the first two weeks starting June 22, then four days-a-week for the next two weeks (July 6 to July 18), folowed by a five days-a-week from then on (July 20), depending on the sustainability of the underpaid purse account.

-edited release (SOANY)