Photo by Leslie Wylie.
In light of the coronavirus pandemic that has forced the cancellation, rescheduling, and reformatting of events around the world, the organizing committee at Rebecca Farm today announced some major updates to the 2020 event.
Hosted in Kalispell, Montana and originally scheduled this year for July 22-26, Rebecca Farm is an annual destination event for over 600 competitors and thousands of spectators. This year, however, will look much different as the event adjusts to new social distancing regulations. Notable among the changes are:
- No spectators
- Only national divisions, Beginner Novice through Advanced, will be run (this event typically hosts a CCI2* – CCI4*S/L in addition to three-day and national divisions)
- Entries will be limited to 300
- The event will run over three days, July 24-26
A release posted on the Rebecca Farm website and social media is as follows:
“The Event at Rebecca Farm will have a new feel this year. This has been a difficult decision, but with the current pandemic situation at hand, we feel that the correct and ‘common sense’ direction to take. We are developing a plan to host a shorter, smaller and more focused competition. We will be using state and local protocols to help guide us through this. Safety is paramount at Rebecca Farm, for both equine and human participants. This also includes our devoted and supportive Flathead Valley Community.
Many of you plan your calendar based on coming to Rebecca Farm. We understand and share in your disappointment as we love to have you all here. The Event is our favorite time of the year. It would be irresponsible for us to host 600-700 horses and riders, thousands of spectators, social functions and a shopping fair during these uncertain times. We are asking that spectators not come out to the Event as we try to keep things safe for everyone.
We plan to run only national divisions, BN-A. This will be the first event for many riders in the west and the courses will reflect that. Our cross country course will be moderate for the levels. Entries will be limited to 300 and the competition will run over three days, Friday July 24-Sunday July 26. All of us are looking forward to hosting a wonderful, fun and safe competition.
Keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for more information. We are evaluating as things change. Please be patient as we analyze and strategize in the best interest of horses, competitors, volunteers, owners, officials and enthusiasts.”
If Rebecca Farm is on your calendar, you’ll want to be sure to enter right away once the event opens on June 9. For more updates on the latest changes to the competition calendar due to COVID-19, click here.
