Weather forces cancellation of Palm Beach Spring
Steeplechase
The Palm Beach Spring Steeplechase scheduled for April 4 has been canceled
due to recent drought conditions which, combined with a severe weather forecast,
could adversely affect the grass track and create dangerous conditions at the
Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida.
The National Weather Service is forecasting severe thunderstorms next week
that, combined with the recent drought, threaten to jeopardize the safety of the
horses and riders in the steeplechase.
Following months of drought that has weakened the grass roots of the
steeplechase track at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the
management team had concerns about the safety of the course. Records show that
so far this year Wellington has received 1.63 inches of precipitation, down
sharply from the average 9.26 inches.
Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) owns and manages the equestrian center and
had scheduled the Spring Steeplechase, with four races over jumps sanctioned by
the National Steeplechase Association and two celebrity races on the flat. ESP
will refund all payments made for tickets.
“Our first priority is the safety of the horses,” said Mark Bellissimo, chief
executive officer of ESP. “Demand for tickets for the Spring Steeplechase is
greater at this stage than it was for the inaugural event four months
ago…Arrangements were being finalized for a day of exciting competition and
fun for the whole family to make this second steeplechase as enjoyable and
memorable as our inaugural event. While disappointed, we look forward to the
Fall Palm Beach Steeplechase.”