15th May 2020
ANCCE have stated that they are exploring various options in terms of the competition calendar and SICAB 2020 in view of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Following a meeting of the ANCCE executive committee on 4th May, the possible delay of the PRE world championships (SICAB) was amongst the issues discussed.
While ANCCE are still keen to hold the finals during the original dates of 17th – 22nd November 2020 at FIBES in Sevilla, the committee have stated that they are in negotiation with the venue proprietors to potentially secure further dates in February or March 2021 to hold a delayed event should it be necessary.
ANCCE have already confirmed that those wishing to participate in the morpho-functionality contest at SICAB in 2020 do not have to qualify for the event, as a result of mass cancellation of sporting events throughout Spain and worldwide. While large entry numbers in the morphology sections shouldn’t cause too many complications – given the introduction of semi-final judging, with only the highest scoring horses proceeding to the finals, in 2019 – it is unclear how ANCCE will rank and admit potential competitors for the SICAB dressage cup final.
The executive committee also discussed the merits of holding virtual, online activity which is seeing increasing popularity amongst other studbooks and the equine community.
ANCCE have agreed to host their first online morphology competition, which will be judged by official judges, in order to promote livestock competition at a time when it would otherwise be impossible. The studbook are currently considering whether dressage activities can also take place online, of which there has been no firm decision.
Going forward, the ANCCE executive committee have agreed to meet on a weekly basis as of 12th May 2020, for as long as the coronavirus pandemic continues to have an impact.
(c) Text by Yasmin Jaouane. Not to be reproduced without prior permission.