The September Spruce Meadows Masters Tournament–which offers the world’s richest show jumping grand prix–has been cancelled due to the Covid 19 virus. The summer’s other events at the facility in Calgary, Alberta Canada were cancelled previously. The Calgary Stampede, the province’s other big horse-oriented attraction, was scrapped last month.
What’s next to be called off? The North American Fall Indoor Circuit? In the season that is rapidly disappearing, anything is possible. But let’s hope not.
The flagship Spruce Meadows fixture would have celebrated its 45th anniversary, with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on hand among other featured entertainment.
“Spruce Meadows, by way of its insights into recent third-party economic impact studies, fully understands that by canceling its five Spruce Meadows show jumping tournaments, there is a widespread economic impact.
“This is particularly true as it relates to the 560 full time jobs, the $45 million in wages and the nearly $90 million in tourism- related economic activity that are attributed to the Spruce Meadows International Show Jumping season,” noted a statement from the organization.
“During these times of enormous health and economic challenges caused by the pandemic, we all strive to remain positive, engaged and be productive members of our community. Spruce Meadows has always been a place of inclusion, caring and safety.
“In these times of global uncertainty, the health and well-being of our sponsors and their employees (many of whom have been with us for our entire history), our competitors, officials, volunteers, fans, the media, Spruce Meadows’ staff and the community at large continues to be our top priority.”