May 2021 Issue

EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN May 2021 Page 9 Press Release It is with deep disap- pointment that the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair (DHSCF) must announce the cancellation of the 125th edition of its event originally scheduled for May 27 - June 6, 2021. This decision was made only after significant evaluation of the far-reaching operational and financial implications due to on-going restrictions imposed by U.S. Equestrian (USEF) regarding spectators and other important issues at their sanc- tioned events. The organizers together with the Board of Directors evaluated multiple options, but were ultimately unable to operate under the cur- rent restrictions outlined by the sport’s governing body. Despite the DHSCF’s many efforts to obtain information, the competition was told on April 5th that guidelines would not be available until “mid- May.” This time frame does not provide sufficient time to adequately plan and prepare for a show of the DHSCF’s size and caliber. In fairness to the competitors, sponsors, ticket holders, vendors, volunteers and all others involved, the DH- SCF believes that the decision Devon Again Cancels the 125th Show to cancel is the best under the circumstances. Although many other eques- trian events are operating during this time, the DHSCF is uniquely tied to our local audience and spectator base and we did not feel that we could, in good faith, jeopardize future events for the sake of running this year against so many financial and operational challenges. This decision was made to protect the financial viability of the show for years to come. In the coming weeks, the DHSCF and its organizers will be contacting all stakeholders with information regarding cancellation processes. The health and well-be- ing of the entire DHSCF commu- nity is always of utmost impor- tance, and while we believed we could run a safe and successful outdoor event, the lack of move- ment in attendance guidelines from USEF made it a financial impossibility even with significant fundraising efforts for the compe- tition to continue in 2021. The Devon Horse Show and Country Fair looks forward to celebrating its 125th anniversary during the competition in 2022! For additional information please visit our website at www.Devon HorseShow.net or follow us on our social media channels.

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