NEWS that the Horse of the Year (HOYS) Show has had to be cancelled due to the ongoing Covid-19 concerns has come as a blow to the Irish and international equestrian circuit.

It is the first time since its founding year in 1949 that HOYS will not be held.

Tickets bought for HOYS 2020 will be valid for the 2021 fixture for the same day and seat number or alternatively, people can obtain a refund.

Cancelling the huge event, which hosts a massive trade fair, was described by the HOYS team as a significant hit that will take ‘many years to recover’ from.

Irish-bred horses and ponies have enjoyed much success in the ring at HOYS over the years with success at the Birmingham NEC venue high on every rider’s and breeder’s wish list.

Great regret

A statement from HOYS said: “It is with great regret, that we, the Board of Grandstand Media Limited must announce the cancellation of the 2020 edition of Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) due to public health concerns linked to the coronavirus pandemic. We look forward to staging the 72nd Horse of the Year Show from Wednesday 6th to Sunday 10th October 2021, at the NEC Birmingham.”

Sandy Anderson, Horse of the Year Show chairman, commented: “We are extremely disappointed to have to make this decision and it is certainly not one that has been taken lightly; we have done so with the utmost concern for public health and the wellbeing of all those involved in making HOYS happen.

It has been on our minds that this will be the first time since the event’s establishment in 1949 that the running of HOYS has been interrupted, and this is not without considerable financial obligation for the event.

“However, we have carried out extensive consideration of the scenarios and we believe that this decision is a measure of the current uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. We believe that this is inevitably the right decision for all concerned and for the future of Horse of the Year Show. Our thoughts are with those that have been, and continue to be, affected by this pandemic.”

Protect public health

Emma Williams, Horse of the Year Show event director, commented: “We strongly believe that this decision has been taken with everyone’s best interests at heart, it is not only to protect public health but to provide certainty to all stakeholders given the current impact of the virus on the qualifier season and wider equestrian events in the UK.

“We have appreciated the support of our staff, societies, and partners in coming to this decision.

“I would also like to thank all of our dedicated Horse of the Year Show fans for their understanding during these incredibly challenging times. It is your passion for HOYS that has made our event what it is today and it is undeniable that without the support of the equestrian community HOYS would not continue to happen.”