Virginia Horse Trials. Photo by Andy Bowles.
A favorite in Area II, the Virginia Horse Trials (VHT) has been approved for a rescheduled date of July 21-24, 2020. Originally postponed due to COVID-19, VHT has moved to a midweek competition to reduce impact on existing events.
VHT Organizer Andy Bowels confirmed that the event intends to run the same levels from the May event, which includes Starter through Intermediate horse trials plus CCI*-L, CCI2*-S, CCI2*-L, and CCI3*-S. Held Thursday-Friday, national classes will run as either one- or two-day competitions at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, Virginia.
“One of our main goals for rescheduling is to make sure competitors requiring qualifications will have the opportunity to obtain them. We have also opted to run midweek in order to reduce the impact on other weekend events,” said Andy.
“We are trying to make the most of a frustrating situation for competitors and organizers around the country. Many events are attempting to reschedule, and competitors are very anxious to get back on course. I would like to thank the Virginia Horse Center for working us into their very busy schedule.”
The Virginia Horse Center is prepared to implement a number of changes to ensure the safety of competitors. Changes include online entries and “low density stabling.” Horse inspections will be held in an open space with social distancing being enforced. The competitor party and awards ceremonies have been cancelled. full details of the COVID-19 safety plan will be available on the VHT website prior to the event.
“Some things will be different, but what has not changed is our dedication to running a quality event. The high standards competitors have come to expect from VHT will be upheld,” Andy said. “We hope to see many familiar faces at VHT in July and hope all our friends have been safe during this uncertain time. Hopefully our announcement today gives them something to look forward to.”
This date changes only reflects VHT Spring 2020 dates. The November Virginia Horse Trials remains scheduled for October 29-November 1, 2020, and VHT’s standard Memorial Day date will resume in 2021.
