Gaffalione Returns Ready After COVID-19 Spell

Jockey Tyler Gaffalione bagged four winners Jan. 12 at Gulfstream Park on his first day back after sitting out last weekend's races after testing positive for COVID-19.

"My valet tested positive early last week," Gaffalione said. "Instead of putting anyone at risk, I went ahead and took a test at home and sat out the necessary days. Unfortunately I missed out on a few winners, but we've all got to do our part."

The Davie, Fla., native and 2015 Eclipse Award-winning apprentice jockey, who said he experienced only mild symptoms, captured the opener on Slam Dunk Racing's Banker's Hours  ($5.60), a mount he picked up from Irad Ortiz Jr., who is currently out with a right knee injury.

Represented by agent Matt Muzikar, Gaffalione won race 4 with Robert Cummings and Donna Cummings' 4-year-old filly Jazzy T ($8), and followed up in race 8 aboard Pocket Aces Racing's 4-year-old gelding Critical Threat  ($8.60), and race 9 with Patricia's Hope's Chacalosa  ($6.20).

Gaffalione had not ridden since finishing third with Philzano in the 10th race finale Jan. 6. He ranks third in the Championship Meet standings with 27 wins, trailing Luis Saez (49) and Paco Lopez (30).

"It feels great. I was starting to run circles in my house with just not much to do," Gaffalione said. "I'm really happy to be back."