BY KRISTINA ROSEN
With Lexington, KY being the horse capital of the world, the coronavirus is undoubtedly having an impact on the equine industry and annual events throughout Lexington that are a hallmark of spring in Kentucky.
Cowboy up for a Cure, scheduled for April 18, announced, “Due to the rising concerns surrounding Covid-19 and a er much consideration we are cancelling our 2020 Rodeo. Please know that this decision was not made lightly. We will be back next April! Everyone please stay smart and be safe.”
Keeneland officials have announced “the cancellation of the upcoming Spring Meet, which was scheduled for April 2-24, due to safety concerns surrounding the outbreak of COVID-19.” Keeneland also announced restrictions on access to race track grounds, “Beginning Monday, March 16, Keeneland will be closed to all non-essential guests and horsemen. Only essential employees, owners, trainers, veterinarians, blacksmiths and stable workers will be allowed entry. In addition to Keeneland’s General O ice, The Keeneland Shop and Keeneland Library are closed until further notice. Tours, including visits from outside tour companies, are canceled through April 14.”
As of press, there have been no changes to the 84th Junior League of Lexington Charity Horse Show scheduled for July 6 through July 11, 2020 at the Kentucky Horse Park.
According to Kentucky Horse Park‘s website, “In an abundance of caution and in setting the example for social distancing in managing COVID-19, the decision has been made to postpone the following events: Kentucky Crafted, Road to the Horse, Cinch Ranch Sorting Event, and Cowboy up for a Cure. This decision was made in conjunction with event organizers, Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet and the Kentucky Horse Park, as part of the Commonwealth’s ongoing effort to ensure the health and wellness of the public as Kentucky fights aggressively to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
Equestrian Events Inc announced the cancellation of this year’s Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event. The annual 5-star Eventing competition had been scheduled for April 23-26, 2020 at Kentucky Horse Park.
Road to the Horse 2020, originally scheduled for March 19 through March 22, has been rescheduled for June 18 through June 21, 2020.
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This article also appears on page 23 of the April 2020 print edition of Hamburg Journal.
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