DRESSAGE Ireland has cancelled their 2020 National Championships, however, there is hope that individual regional committees will be able to host their own regional championships once equestrian sport resumes.

Dressage Ireland has also indicated they will begin online dressage tests in the coming weeks, with further details to be announced.

Chairperson Marguerite Kavanagh said: “After considerable deliberation the Board have regretfully decided to cancel the 2020 National Dressage Championships. We understand that this will disappoint many people, however the health and safety of all those who come together for the National Championships has been our priority in making this decision.

“We realise that members are missing out on the ability to train and compete and with this in mind the Board have been working behind the scenes on your behalf. We are currently in consultation with HSI on a ‘Return to Sport Document’ and have asked Regional Committees for proposed schedules going forward. So there is hope on the horizon!

“As it is not possible to have large-scale gatherings, we are hoping that when we are given the approval for our shows to commence that your regional committees will be able to run a Regional Championship event for their members. Dressage Ireland central will offer some financial support towards the expenses of such events.

“As this is an evolving situation we are unable to give exact dates and venues as yet but we should be able to do so over the coming few weeks. Regional committees will then be able to post details of their schedules and Championships on their websites.”

Abide by restrictions

Kavanagh added: “Covid-19 compliance measures means that shows will be organised differently and we ask you all to please abide by the restrictions. Be patient and respectful of show organisers as they guide competitors on maintaining social distancing and hygiene practices. The shows will be structured to ensure competitors will spend minimal time at the show grounds and these measures will be strictly enforced.

“The Board have also been in contact with our Insurers and we have put in place Rules and Guidelines for regions who would like to go ahead and run dressage tests online, with details to be published shortly.”