April 2021 Issue

EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN April 2021 Page 29 Shows, Events Carefully Resume Willowdale Steeplechase helps to further the stewardship of our natural resources and educate the next generation of large animal veterinarians.” To find out more, or to support the beneficiary or- ganizations, check the website at: www.willowdalesteeplechase.org • May 15, Radnor Hunt Races in Chester County, PA. The 90th edition of this Chester Coun- ty race will continue the tradition of raising money for the Brandy- wine Conservancy. This Race for Open Space will be somewhat circumscribed by COVID-19. “The safety and well-being of our spectators, competitors, officials and volunteers is our top priority. Due to COVID-19, our planning decisions are being guided by government mandates and public health guidelines and will require some changes to the event.” Atten- dance will be limited, and ticket sales opened in stages. The first group of individuals eligible for tickets were those who rolled their 2020 ticket purchases over for this year’s event. The next group of tickets will be offered to individu- als who purchased tickets in 2020 and received refunds. The general public will be able to purchase the remaining tickets, beginning on April 1. To learn more about the Radnor Hunt Races or the Radnor Hunt, check the website: www. brandywine.org/conservancy/ events/radnor-hunt-races • May 30, Winterthur Point to Point in New Castle County, DE. This 43-year tradition across the rolling hills of Winterthur, normally held the weekend before Mother’s Day, will also likely change more than its date in 2021. The organizers are waiting for approvals of their plans from the State of Delaware. “We hope to have a very safe and fun-filled event again this May. Please under- stand that large gatherings require exceptional care in planning.” They’ll be releasing more infor- mation about ticket sales, etc., and will post updated information on their website: www.winterthur.org/ exhibitions-events/events/point-to- point-steeplechase/ • May 27-June 6, Devon Horse Show and Country Fair , the great-grandparent of today’s multi-breed horse shows. Started as a one-day show in 1898, the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair hosts rising stars, superstars and the superstars of tomorrow. And over the years, this legendary horse show has raised more than $16 million for Bryn Mawr Hos- pital. Advance ticket sales began in March, and there are numerous logistical issues to ensure that the Horse Show conforms to the USEF rules. With nearly two months to go before horses and trainers and riders—not to mention specta- tors—arrive in Devon, the picture might change dramatically. To stay on top of any changes, check the website: www.devonhorseshow.net Few will miss the pandemic cliches that have permeated the media and conversations among co-workers, friends and fami- ly. “An abundance of caution.” “Social distancing.” “Mask up.” “We’re in this together!” “New normal.” And the dreaded “pivot.” Looking ahead to the somewhat abbreviated or altered traditions that have historically brought equestrians and horse lovers together in a joyful community focused on competition and the ar- rival of Spring, it’s useful to look at Spring 2021 as a true rebirth. Next year may surely be different—clos- er to what everyone once enjoyed without giving much thought to the richness of the experience. (Continued from page 24)