February 2, 2021 
New year, same problems.
Following in the footsteps of 2020 and the shortest show season on record this century, the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event (LRK3DE) has cancelled its famed Five Star three-day event in 2021. “The Best Weekend All Year,” previously scheduled for April 22–25, was also cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s not all bad news, however. Something is likely to happen at the Horse Park over that April weekend, albeit without spectators.
“We have been working with US Equestrian, the Kentucky Horse Park, and state and local government on several different scenarios for April,” said Mike Cooper, president of Equestrian Events, Inc. (EEI) organizer of the LRK3DE.
“With so many uncertainties still remaining regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, it is premature for US Equestrian to remove its restrictions on spectators. Given the importance of the health and well-being of our spectators and competitors, we feel the only option at this time is to cancel the Five Star Event and hopefully proceed with other events that our fans can enjoy via livestream and other outlets.”
Among the alternative competitions being considered are a new CCI-4*-S, and the Kentucky CSI3* Invitational Grand Prix, which normally takes place on Saturday afternoon.
“While disappointing that all our fans can’t join us again this April,” added Lee Carter, EEI executive director, “we are excited that some of those same fans can now compete in new levels we will be offering during the ‘Best Weekend All Year!’ April 21-25 … Save the Date! Plans are being developed and will be communicated as approved.”
Refunds and roll over options are being offered to spectators, patrons, vendors and sponsors who paid for the 2020 event.
LRK3DE is one of only seven annual Five Star three-day events in the world and serves as the Land Rover/USEF CCI-5*-L Eventing National Championship for U.S. athletes.
