Eventing: bad news from Kentucky

Lexington (Usa), February 2, 2021 – The Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ will not hold its Five Star three-day event this year. It was previously scheduled for April 22-25.

«We’ve been working with US Equestrian, Kentucky Horse Park, state and local government on different scenarios for April» said Mike Cooper, president of Equestrian Events.

He also added: «With so many uncertainties still remaining regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, it is premature for US Equestrian to remove its restrictions on spectators».

At this time, given the importance of the health and well-being of everybody, the organizers’ only option is to cancel the Five Star Event.

Hopefully they will proceed with other events that fans can enjoy via livestream.

What is still on

The Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute and other events are being explored to be held over that weekend but without spectators.

Among the competitions that have been confirmed even without public, there is a new CCI-4*-S which will likely feature many of the same horses and riders that would have been competing in the Five Star. Plus the Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix, which normally takes place on Saturday afternoon.

“While disappointing that all our fans can’t join us again this April,” added Lee Carter, EEI executive director, “we are excited that some of those same fans can now compete in new levels we will be offering during the ‘Best Weekend All Year!’ April 21-25 … Save the Date! Plans are being developed and will be communicated as approved.”

Spectators, patrons, vendors and sponsors who paid for the 2020 event and chose to roll their money over for 2021 will have the option of full refunds or rolling their money over again for 2022. Ticket holders can expect an email regarding their options. Sponsors may choose to be part of whatever events are held in 2021 with new agreements that fit this year’s situation.