As horse show organizers struggle with competitions that continue to be cancelled or are at the very least moving targets, the reality is that there will eventually be competitions again – but when and how remain the big questions.
All Equestrian Canada-sanctioned competitions have been suspended until June 30; however, from May 1-June 30 EC has advised that ‘competitions may be sanctioned on a case-by-case basis upon request by a Provincial/Territorial Sport Organizations (PTSOs) due to varying timelines across provinces regarding reopening. Mandates from provincial and federal government bodies and public health authorities will be the final factor for sanctioning until further notice.’
The province of Ontario has extended it’s state of emergency until June 2 and continues to have a ban on all gatherings of more than five people. Ontario Equestrian has issued a Guide To Reopening Equine Businesses which, while it concentrates on the important aspect of getting stables up and running again, and not specifically horse shows, includes the highly-detailed World Health Organization’s considerations for sports event organizers. The WHO document suggests that ‘It may be easier to ensure physical distancing advice is followed in outdoor events with nondesignated seating such as horse racing, golf, etc.’