One of the world’s greatest international horse shows, presented by the Royal Dublin Society, has been knocked out by the Covid situation for the second year in a row.
“The RDS has been monitoring the evolving situation regarding Covid-19, including the vaccination rates and the latest Government advice. In the current circumstances it has been decided that it will not be possible to operate a Dublin Horse Show this year,” said a statement from the RDS.
“Preparations for a typical Dublin Horse Show take many months of planning and organization, and this has not been possible this year with the levels of uncertainty that still exist around the re-opening of Irish society.”
It is both fiscal and sporting blow, since the show has been estimated to be worth 50 million Euros to the Irish economy.
The showgrounds will not be entirely dark, if the government approves a national show offered behind closed doors (without spectators) that has been proposed for the international’s five-day slot Aug. 18-22.
Entry to the event will be restricted to equestrian competitors for the day of their competition only,as the RDS “is mindful of acting responsibly during these times.”
The RDS statement continued: “Our desire to host the RDS National Championships, despite the exceptionally challenging circumstances, is motivated by our commitment to support the sport horse industry during this very difficult time. We would like to acknowledge and thank the ongoing support of our sponsors, who are crucial to the viability of the Dublin Horse Show, as well as the understanding of the equestrian community for whom the Show is a yearly highlight.
“We look forward to hosting the Dublin Horse Show in 2022 and welcoming tens of thousands of visitors back each day to a summer staple that people have known and loved for generations.”
The proposed schedule would feature;young horse in hand classes, ponies, amateur jumpers, children’s jumpers and classes for young jumpers up to 9 years old.