The organizers of the 2021 Bramham International Horse Trials have issued a statement about its cancellation:
“It is with great regret that the organising team behind the Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trials announces that his year’s fixture, 10 – 13 June, is cancelled. Whilst the government’s positive road map to exit lockdown, successful vaccine roll-out programme and falling case numbers provided some optimism that the event could run, the proposed conditions are impossible to comply with on the Bramham site, even assuming that the Government’s roadmap timetable does not slip.
Event Director Nick Pritchard commented; “We’ve explored every avenue possible to keep Bramham 2021 in the calendar. However, the health, safety and welfare of all who are involved in the Event, or come to watch it, is our number one priority and we just can’t guarantee that within the government’s rules.”
“Due to the nature and scale of the Event, it is impossible to enforce social distancing reasonably. The extent of the site makes it unfeasible to completely control public access. Sadly, a park isn’t the same as a stadium and whilst there’s plenty of space, we can’t guarantee social distancing in busy areas. We’re a 500-acre park with several footpaths crossing the estate and with spectator numbers limited to 4,000, we can’t be confident on keeping to this.
“The team and I are deeply disappointed to admit defeat, despite our best efforts. Having missed last year and this being an Olympic year, when Bramham would have been important to many nations for team selection, we wanted to put on a memorable competition. Sadly we can’t guarantee a COVID-secure show ground and feel it would be irresponsible to run.”
The team at Bramham would like to thank our loyal sponsors and volunteers, all owners, riders and grooms, tradestands, contractors and spectators for their continued support, which has made this decision all the more difficult. We look forward to welcoming you back to Bramham in 2022.”
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