Update on Equestrian Australia High Performance Program

We hope you are keeping well, safe and healthy.

Due to the recent announcements surrounding the Tokyo Games we felt it important to update you all on the current circumstances and changes that continue to be ever evolving.

With the announcement of the postponement of the Tokyo Games 2020 to similar dates in 2021, the FEI, National Federations, Athletes, Officials and Organising Committees will need to implement adaptations to various plans in response to the revised dates for both Games, which was announced on Monday. 

We understand the FEI is already in the process of evaluating how they can best make these new dates work and mitigate against dramatic effects on the FEI Calendar in 2021, the qualification of athletes, and the obtaining of Minimum Eligibility Requirements.

As you can imagine this process will be ongoing and will also have a knock-on effect for how Equestrian Australia High Performance manage our High-Performance Plan, the Tokyo Games operations, campaign plans and the relevant nomination policies. 

The EA High Performance Panel and the National Selection Panels will meet in the coming weeks to further discuss, plan and adapt to these important changes.

In the meantime all planning, preparation and funding from EA High Performance will be put on hold until we receive confirmation of funding levels and further direction from our relevant stakeholders.

In order to manage the long-term viability of the Equestrian Australia High Performance Program, all High Performance staff have agreed to be partially stood down. We recognise the challenge that this will pose for these staff members and are extremely grateful for everybody’s understanding. We nevertheless feel that it is important for the long-term sustainability of our program, athletes and team preparation for Tokyo. 

We will continue to work hard to adapt these plans and remain available to our stakeholders during this period. We will endeavour to keep you updated on this progress where we can and remain connected with you as a high performance equestrian community.

The health and safety of our people and horses remain our priority as we work together as a broader community in order to navigate through these tough times. 

We thank you for your understanding and continued support and please feel free to contact the High Performance team directly if you have questions or queries.