Third NYRA jockey to test positive since December 31, 2021
Jockey Manny Franco tested positive for COVID-19 Jan. 4 and will remain off his mounts until Jan. 9, the New York Racing Association announced Jan. 5.
Franco has not experienced symptoms and was proactively tested because of standard contact tracing following the positive tests of jockeys Jorge Vargas Jr. and Jalon Samuel Dec. 31.
All members of the NYRA jockey colony are vaccinated and adhere to established protocols. In addition, the jockey quarters at Aqueduct Racetrack have been substantially altered to provide maximum physical distancing and reduce density.
NYRA follows the most updated federal and state guidance regarding contact tracing, testing, required isolation, and quarantine. Accordingly, Franco will be permitted to return to competition Sunday, if he remains asymptomatic.
COVID-19 cases are at record levels across the country amid a surge largely attributed to the contagious Omicron variant. Scientists and doctors believe the Omicron variant is partially eluding the capacity of vaccines to neutralize the virus, though vaccinated individuals likely experience lesser symptoms once contracting COVID-19.
More than 9,000 New Yorkers are now hospitalized with COVID-19, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Jan. 13, surpassing the surge in January 2021 and reaching levels not seen since May 2020 in the state.
In accordance with New York City requirements, anyone seeking to enter Aqueduct in any capacity must demonstrate proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Facemasks are always required on NYRA property.
