On Saturday (March 13) Woodbine Mohawk Park released the following letter as a reminder to the local harness racing industry.

Hello Woodbine Mohawk Park Horsepeole,

We are all very excited to be racing again after the most recent, unexpected shutdown. Being able to get back to the track for live racing has been great for the industry across the province.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to severely impact people and business throughout Ontario, we ask that you please remain committed to following all protocols and guidelines designed to keep us all safe and protect our live racing program.

Last week, we distributed the updated COVID-19 Monitoring and Travel Restriction. Within this communication we describe rules to be followed when returning to Woodbine Mohawk Park from within Ontario and abroad. Please ensure you and your staff are aware and following these protocols and reach out to Bill McLinchey, Director, Standardbred Racing at [email protected].

In addition to the updated COVID-19 Monitoring and Travel Restriction rules distributed last week, please review the below information and ensure all staff follow the directions at all times.

• Only essential personnel will be granted access to the Paddock. This includes one Groom per horse; multiple grooms per horse is not acceptable in the Paddock. Trainers are responsible for their grooms actions while at the racetrack.

• While in the Paddock, trainers and grooms must remain with their horse at all times.

• Everyone must remain minimum of six feet / two metres from each other. Socially distancing remains an important way to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

• Masks are to be worn at all times. This includes disposable surgical/non-surgical face masks, dust masks, custom re-useable cloth face masks that cover both the mouth and nose. Bandanas and balaclavas are no longer permitted as appropriate face coverings, unless they are worn over a suitable face mask.

• Access to Woodbine Mohawk Park requires a completed online COVID-19 Daily Screening Protocol and / or additional security measures which may include temperature checks or questions specific to COVID-19 and your travels.

Everyone has done an excellent job at following the above. As the weather begins to warm and news of vaccines dominate headlines, we must remain committed to ourselves, each other, and our sport through carefully following all guidelines.

Please reach out to Bill McLinchey, Director, Standardbred Racing at [email protected] with questions or concerns.

Thank you.

(Woodbine)