The deadline of 10 January for all 4Racing managed racecourse raceday participants – including jockeys- to obtain their second vaccination has now come and gone.
Prior to the deadline, jockeys who were still awaiting their second vaccination were allowed to ride on the proviso that they produce a negative antigen test result prior to each raceday. This was being strictly managed by the Racing Operators via SOP’s established in line with government regulations.
In Britain, a negative Lateral Flow Test (LFT) was implemented as a requirement to gain entry to the Weighing Room at all British race meetings from Tuesday 11 January.
The additional safeguard against COVID-19 had been delayed temporarily to give participants and officials planning to enter the Weighing Room an opportunity to obtain lateral flow testing kits.
The decision to implement the new testing requirements from 11 January follows reports of an improvement in the availability of LFTs. Supplies will continue to be monitored, with participants and officials kept updated as to any further adjustments that may be required.
The introduction of mandatory testing builds on the existing infection control measures in place in the Weighing Room complex, including social distancing and the use of face coverings.
Vaccination also remains an essential part of the protection against COVID-19.
The BHA has issued a directive that everyone planning to attend British racing fixtures from Tuesday 11 January should ensure that they:
- Continue to order LFTs.
- Download the NHS App.
- Complete the LFT before you leave to go racing;
- Upload your LFT result.
- On arrival show any of the following as evidence of a negative test:
Text reporting a negative test;
Email reporting a negative test;
NHS App COVID Pass Data;
- If you test positive, isolate and follow instructions.
