During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been more challenging than ever to run a stable, but dedication and teamwork have ensured that racing has continued. This has been crucial to those whose livelihoods depend on it, has provided a beacon for racing fans, and ensured the horses continue to receive their vital daily care. Working closely with the VRC, Flemington trainers and staff are to be commended for how they have adhered to strict COVID-19 protocols. These include temperature checks, sanitising, social distancing, separate tack for each rider, two teams of stable staff who don’t come into contact with each other, and regular cleaning of all equipment and surfaces. Troy Corstens of Malua Racing at Flemington is proud of how the industry, and his team, have faced the challenges. “We’re doing everything we can to limit the spread and keep everybody in a job.” As the landscape changes daily, the VRC and industry continue to alter their protocols to align with this. Ensuring the continuation of racing helps protect more than 100,000 jobs, which in turn protects the health and wellbeing of our equine athletes.
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