Racing in Victoria has tonight breathed a huge sigh of relief after star jockey Mark Zahra was cleared of COVID-19 after returning a negative test result.
The 37-year-old gun hoop was advised to take the test after potential exposure to the coronavirus following a domestic flight he boarded on the 12th of March.
Zahra also came into contact with a number of Sydney jockeys including Hugh Bowman and Tommy Berry who have all returned negative tests since.
The result means racing in Victoria will almost certainly re-commence on Friday with meetings set to be held at Warrnambool and Pakenham followed by Bendigo Guineas and Golden Mile Day on Saturday.
Racing Victoria will also continue to implement their strict COVID-19 protocols in line with the health department of the Victorian Government meaning no public attendance at any raceday.