Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton released a list of safety protocols, which include the requirement for many participants to receive a negative COVID-19 test, Monday ahead of the two companies' upcoming yearling sales.
“Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton are committed to providing the safest environment possible for both horses and humans on our grounds during the September sales,” Keeneland President and CEO Bill Thomason and Fasig-Tipton President Boyd T. Browning, Jr. said in a joint statement. “Given the proximity of our two sales in terms of both dates and locations, it is important that we provide consistent protocols for the convenience of our participants.”
The protocols, which were developed in collaboration with local and state health officials, will require all consignors and their staffs, veterinarians and their staffs, farriers, van counter representatives, media and any other person who will be interfacing with the public on a daily basis to receive a negative COVID-19 test within 10 days of entry to the grounds.
Testing will be available at Fasig-Tipton Aug. 24 and 25 and Sept. 3 through 5. Keeneland will make testing available Aug. 24 and 25, Aug. 31, Sept. 1-2 and Sept. 11-12.
Buyers will not be required to be tested, but must complete a health questionnaire prior to the sale. However, testing will be available to buyers if requested.
Other protocols in place at the sales include daily screenings and temperature checks, the wearing of face coverings at all times, as well as social distancing. Capacity will be limited throughout the sales pavilion and grounds and neither auction will be open to the public. All sales participants will be required to pre-register on-line and attendance will be limited to credentialed individuals.
The Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearling Showcase will be held at Newtown Paddocks Sept. 9 and 10. The Keeneland September Yearling Sale will be held Sept. 13 through 25.
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