The 83rd season of live racing at Delaware Park is set to open this Wednesday with spectators and enhanced safety protocols, including enforced social distancing. More information on the
safety protocols that were released on Monday.
Opening Day was pushed back three weeks to Wednesday, June 17th due to Coronavirus. and w will now conclude on Saturday, October 17th.
The 65 day meet, reduced by 20 days, is subject to approval by Governor John Carney for racing to commence, with or without fans, and the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission (DTRC) for the revised schedule.
Live racing will be conducted three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Thursdays will be added July 16th and continue through October 1st. First race daily post time is set for 1:15 p.m. The Grade II Delaware Handicap is still scheduled for Saturday, July 11th and the Grade III Delaware Oaks is scheduled for Saturday, July 4th.
Racing will be conducted with enhanced safety protocols compiled from recommendations by the Center of Disease Control (CDC), Delaware state health officials, National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) and National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA). These increased safety protocols include, but are not limited to:
• Temperature checks and health screening questionnaires at the facility and stable area;
• Strict social distancing requirements;
• Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (facial coverings and gloves);
• Frequent disinfecting of all areas with EPA registered and CDC approved cleaning solutions effective against the COVID-19 virus;
Patron Safety Protocols – Live Racing
- Attendance will be limited to a combined total of 3,000 patrons, both inside and outside; Initial access to the Clubhouse will be limited to the Paddock entrance;
- All patrons will have their temperature taken prior to being granted access to the Clubhouse:
- Temperature will be taken by thermal imaging camera or touchless, handheld thermometer;
- All patrons will be asked two health screening questions if they have any symptoms related to COVID – 19 or if there has been any close contact with a person testing positive for COVID – 19 during the previous 14 day period:
- Guests flagged by temperature reading of 99.5° or higher (as established by Delaware Health & Social Services), or flagged by the health screening questionnaire will be prohibited
from entering; - Guests demonstrating symptoms will be asked to immediately vacate the property;
- Guests flagged by temperature reading of 99.5° or higher (as established by Delaware Health & Social Services), or flagged by the health screening questionnaire will be prohibited
- Patrons entering the Clubhouse will be given a wristband that will need to be worn at all times;
x All patrons must possess a face mask when entering the property, bandanas will not be acceptable; - FACE MASKS COVERING THE NOSE AND MOUTH MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES WHILE INSIDE THE CLUBHOUSE, EXCEPT WHEN EATING. NONCOMPLIANCE WILL RESULT IN A WARNING TO THE PATRON AND COULD RESULT IN THE PATRON BEING ASKED TO LEAVE THE PROPERTY;
- Face masks are strongly encouraged outside while properly social distancing and required when in areas that social distancing is not possible and while making wagers or ordering food and/or drinks;
- Proper social distancing will be enforced inside the Clubhouse and in the outside seating areas.
Patrons will not be allowed to congregate in any areas, except those patrons from the same household; - Hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the Clubhouse and outdoor seating areas;
- Outdoor seating will be available on the Apron and in the Grove area, including the tent. The Grandstand seating area will be closed to patrons on Wednesday, June 17th.
