Arlington Park given green light to host 300 racegoers but masks are compulsory

Racegoers will be allowed on track at Arlington Park next month, with the course able to accommodate up to 300 spectators on race days, starting September 3.

With pilot schemes also taking place in Britain next month, beginning with Doncaster's St Leger meeting, the news from Arlington Park is another boost as racing, and the wider world, attempts to take steps to return to normality.

Those attending any meetings at Arlington Park will have to adhere to strict Covid-19 health and safety guidelines and can only use outdoor seating options.

Other restrictions include the wearing of masks at all times unless consuming food or a beverage in a seat, and on-course betting will be self-service only.

Beginning on Thursday, September 3, fixtures are scheduled at the track for every Thursday-Saturday until September 26.

That means those in attendance will also be able to enjoy watching on screen the rescheduled Kentucky Derby, due to be run at Churchill Downs on September 5.

Arlington Park president, Tony Petrillo, said: "Wearing masks and social distancing behaviours that have been adopted by the public, along with additional measures incorporated into our plan for spectators, allows us to have a safe environment for everyone in our outdoor grandstand facility.

"We are confident that we will operate our grandstand facility as safely as we have operated in our backstretch and trackside facilities over the past few months. We are thankful for the cooperation and assistance of local and state officials who helped develop and approve our plan."

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