Yesterday’s steady rain turned into a downpour overnight, forcing organizers to re-evaluate the packed AEC schedule for today, Sept. 13. The ground jury deemed the cross-country course too sloppy for the advanced, intermediate and preliminary divisions, so those riders are now scheduled to saddle up this afternoon for show jumping.

Heavy rains this morning gave way to lightning and thunder by 9 a.m., and officials put a hold on the competition, sending horses and riders to shelter near the end of the junior novice division. The top four riders in the division, already fully warmed-up for their rounds, were sent scampering for cover as spectators and officials retreated to Lamplight’s ringside café and office for about 30 minutes.

More than 1.5 inches of rain have already fallen, and another 2-4 are forecasted for today. Competition continues tentatively, with nine different divisions scheduled to show jump.

UPDATE: Cross-country has been canceled for preliminary, intermediate and advanced divisions. These divisions will be scored as combined tests, and are scheduled to conclude today