Large Fields as Racing Resumes at Golden Gate Fields

Golden Gate Fields horsemen, unable to race there since Nov. 12 following a COVID-19 outbreak at the track, have supported entries for a resumption of racing that begins Jan. 15 at the Northern California oval.

Friday's eight-race card attracted 78 horses and eight more also-eligibles over eight races, and 88 horses are a part of 10 races there Jan. 16. Entries are well above the track's average of 6.7 starters per race during its abbreviated fall meet.

The track will pay out the Golden Pick Six jackpot wager on Friday, which has a carryover of $26,201.

While racing was paused, more than 300 individuals at Golden Gate tested positive for COVID-19, mostly backstretch workers, before conditions improved to allow for a return of racing, according to the Berkeley Public Health Division. One Golden Gate trainer, Bob Hess Sr., died last month from COVID-19 at age 86.

Though the backstretch at Golden Gate is not at capacity, most of the horses that raced there before the suspension have remained stabled locally, and some of those that left to compete at other tracks are expected to return. Training was permitted to continue.

The track is fitting horsemen for N95 masks, and other safety protocols have been established. No owners or fans are currently allowed for racing or training.

No stakes are planned this month. On Feb. 13 the track will stage the $100,000 El Camino Real Derby, a qualifier on the Road to the Kentucky Derby.