Equestrian Events Inc. (EEI) has announced cancellation of this year’s Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by MARS Equestrian™ and Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. The events had been scheduled for April 23-26 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
“This marks the first cancellation in the event’s 42-year history, but the worldwide health crisis and concerns about the spread of COVID-19 make this the only decision possible,” said Lee Carter, EEI executive director. “This is incredibly disappointing to everyone on so many levels, but the health and well-being of everyone—spectators, volunteers, athletes, staff and officials—is our number one priority and given the current situation, there really is no choice.”
“Sporting events and large public gatherings are being called off all across the country and it is with deep regret, and with the highest concern for all our patrons, that we take this step,” said Mike Cooper, EEI president. “With the recommendation by the CDC to cancel or postpone events with guests for the next eight weeks, it became apparent that this was the only acceptable course of action.”
Refund options for ticket holders will be announced soon.
Known as “The Best Weekend All Year,” LRK3DE is a thrilling multi-day competition featuring Olympic-level riders and horses in what can best be described as an equestrian triathlon. Horses and riders compete for $425,000 in prize money in three phases of competition – Dressage, Cross-Country and Show Jumping.
LRK3DE is one of only seven annual Five Star three-day events in the world and is the first and longest-running five-star in the Americas. As the United States’ premier event, it also serves as the Land Rover/USEF CCI-5*-L Eventing National Championship presented by MARS Equestrian.
The event also features world-class show jumping in the $225,000 Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix presented by Hagyard Equine Medical Institute on Saturday afternoon following cross country plus a $37,000 Welcome Speed Cup Ranking Class on Friday after dressage.
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