As an unprecedented year winds down and cases of COVID-19 rise across North America, the horse racing world like all other areas of society continues to make changes in response to the pandemic. Many racetracks currently operating are doing so without spectators or with limits to attendance, and have instituted strict safety screening protocols for essential employees who are already on the grounds to provide daily care for horses.

Clem Labine was a stellar relief pitcher for the 1950s Dodgers, back before they moved to Los Angeles. He’s also a 4-year-old racehorse who, despite a three-month layoff, was the heavy favorite in the featured 10th race, a $20,000 claimer, at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Wash., on closing night (Oct. 29) of the godforsaken year of our Lord, 2020.