EA High Performance Update on Covid-19 – 30th March 2020

As Covid-19 continues to evolve and countries around the world go into lockdown, the health and wellbeing of our riders, horses, support teams and families remain our priority and we continue to monitor the situation.

We urge everyone in the equestrian community to abide by the latest government directives, make health and wellbeing their priority, and do everything possible to minimise non-essential travel and contact between individuals.

The IOC and Tokyo 2020 announced the Olympic and Paralympic Games would be postponed to 2021, with official dates still to be confirmed. The High Performance team continue to work closely with the AOC, PA and FEI as more information becomes available to us, and remain committed to delivering a successful Games next year.

The AIS continues to provide regular updates on its webpage dedicated to Covid-19 and the implications for high performance sport: https://ais.gov.au/health-wellbeing/covid-19

The AIS and the National Institute Network have closed their sport and gym facilities and closed all non-essential services to every sport around the country. Athletes are being supported in their home environments wherever possible, and injuries and illnesses treated face-to-face only if absolutely required.

We will liaise with the AIS regarding ongoing funding models, and review and adjust the Tokyo campaign strategy accordingly.

The High Performance team are working with the riders to support them as much as we can at this time, as well as with the AIS to ensure our athletes have access to wider support if required.

The AIS Mental Health Referral Network has extended its availability to impacted friends and family of categorised athletes, allowing our athletes and their teams to seek mental health support or advice from one of their mental health professionals if desired.

Governments around the world have announced stimulus packages in response to Covid-19. We encourage riders and their teams to ensure they are taking full advantage of any financial benefits they are entitled to in these challenging times.

Riders have been sent information on how they may be able to use remote coaching to still coach clients using a simple group video call and phone technology while there are travel restrictions and lockdown rules in place.

Athlete and horse welfare continues to remain the highest priority to the High Performance Team and we are committed to ensuring our athletes, horses, staff, and the wider equestrian community remain healthy and informed.

EA High Performance Director,

Chris Webb

Article courtesy of Equestrian Australia