On April 23 the Longines Luhmühlen Horse Trials CCI5*/4* announced the cancellation of its 2020 event, which was scheduled to run June 18-21.
“After the German government announced new restrictions on April 15, we have considered several options but unfortunately now have to cancel the Longines Luhmühlen Horse Trials,” said Event Director Julia Otto in a press release.
The Australian International 3-Day Event CCI5* has also been canceled, though it was not scheduled to run until Nov. 12-15.
“Our primary focus has to be on our ability to operate a safe and successful event at the world-high benchmark we have created,” said Board Chair Greg Rolton. “It is the Board’s view that even if restrictions were lifted to a point of allowing spectators to the event, the athletes and horses would not have the lead up events to qualify and prepare them to compete at the five-star competition. This has led to the decision to cancel the 2020 event but we look forward to planning the 2021 Aus3DE to showcase the very best that Adelaide and South Australia has to offer post this crisis.”
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The organizing team of the SsangYong Blenheim Horse Trials CCI 4*-L and CCI4*-S (Sept. 17-20) announced the cancellation of its 2020 event on April 27.
“Having considering all options, following the government’s latest comments over potential future social distancing restrictions; it is with huge regret that the Organizers – British Eventing and Blenheim Estate, in conjunction with title sponsor SsangYong Motors UK, have taken the difficult decision not to run the SsangYong Blenheim Palace Horse Trials in 2020,” stated a press release.
“Clearly Coronovirus has impacted on everyone’s lives and whilst we are massively disappointed not to be able to put on the show case event that we have been planning and preparing, the longer term health and safety of the public, competitors, exhibitors, volunteers and officials and staff; sustainability of the sport and those who support us, is paramount,” the release continued. “We would like to thank all of our competitors, sponsors, exhibitors, officials and volunteers and all who support us in any way for their understanding and ongoing commitment to the event and sport and we hope to see you all back at Blenheim in 2021.”
