May 1, 2020 
There will be no sanctioned horse shows this month or next in Canada.
Equestrian Canada (EC) has extended its suspension on sanctioned competition to June 30, 2020, due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic—a full month longer than its American counterpart.
But it comes with one hopeful caveat:
“From May 1 to June 30, 2020, EC competitions may be sanctioned on a case-by-case basis upon request by a Provincial/Territorial Sport Organizations (PTSOs) due to varying timelines across provinces regarding reopening. Mandates from provincial and federal government bodies and public health authorities will be the final factor for sanctioning until further notice.”
The news follows a same day announcement by the province of Ontario that select business sectors would be reopening on Monday, May 4.
Continued the statement from Equestrian Canada:
“With many provinces set to implement a phased-in reopening, this suspension extension is intended to provide adequate time between the return to activity and the return to competition. A working group of EC staff and veterinarians has been developing a graduated framework that will protect the health and welfare of horses upon competition reinstatement; this framework will be published in the coming weeks.”
At this time, the reopening plans of riding schools, lesson barns, coaching businesses and training facilities will be determined by those set forth by provincial government bodies. All in-person meetings, clinics, events, Rookie Rider and Learn to Ride/Drive activities remain suspended until further notice.
South of the border, sanctioned competition is also remains suspended. CEO William Moroney announced last week that USEF owned and named events, selection trials, training camps, clinics and activities remain suspended through May 31.
