Jockey Tyler Gaffalione picked up four winners on January 12 at Gulfstream Park on his first day back from sitting out the races last weekend after testing positive for COVID-19.
“My servant tested positive early last week,” Gaffalione said. “Instead of putting anyone at risk, I took the test at home and sat back the necessary days. Unfortunately, I missed out on a few winners, but we all have to do our part. my job.”
Apprentice racer Davie, Fla., Eclipse 2015 native and award winner, who said he was experiencing only mild symptoms, scored the opening goal on Slam Dunk Racing’s Bank hours ($5.60), a mount he bought from Irad Ortiz Jr., who is currently out of action with a right knee injury.
Represented by agent Matt Muzikar, Gaffalione won 4 races with Robert Cummings and 4-year-old Donna Cummings’ Jazzy Tzu ($8), and followed by race number 8 on Pocket Aces Racing’s 4-year-old gelding Serious threat ($8.60), and raced 9th with Patricia’s Hope’s Chacalosa ($6.20).
Gaffalione hasn’t ridden since coming in third with Philzano in the 10th race final on January 6. He finished third in the Championship Meet standings with 27 wins, behind Luis Saez (49) and Paco Lopez (30).
“It felt great. I started running around the house without much work to do,” Gaffalione said. “I’m really happy to be back.”
