United States Hall of Fame jockey Javier Castellano has tested positive for the coronavirus and is self-isolating.
The winner of multiple American Classics and Breeders’ Cups, Javier Castellano tested positive as part of a physical that officials at Gulfstream Park mandated as a prerequisite before being cleared to ride in Saturday’s Florida Derby.
“After being in New York with my family last week, I was asked by Gulfstream to come early to Florida to get tested for the virus,” Castellano said on Twitter.
“I was asymptomatic all along. Unfortunately the test came back last night as positive. I am otherwise healthy but will follow the doctors orders to quarantine for the next two weeks. I have had no known contact with anyone that has tested positive.
“I appreciate the support from everyone including Gulfstream Park. Stay safe everyone and we will all get through this God willing.” Castellano added.
Having last rode on March 15 when he had two rides at Gulfstream Park, Castellano returned to New York to be with family afterwards and was scheduled to ride at Gulfstream this weekend.
The Hallandale Beach racetrack has issued tight restrictions for anyone entering the track, not excluding jockeys. The idyllic Florida track has continued to host race behind closed doors without the presence of spectators.
Other Racing states have paused racing with the Kentucky Derby moved from May to September.
Javier Castellano has won more than 5,000 races in his career with purse winnings exceeding $344 million.
One of America’s best jockey’s wont race during pandemic.
